Matthew Baione ’14 - Partner at Pitta & Baione

Deans Melanie Leslie and Carey Grand sit down with Matthew Baione ’14, a founding member of the 9/11 compensation law firm Pitta & Baione LLP, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about purpose, resilience, and building a meaningful legal career.Matthew shares how Cardozo’s May-entry program shaped his path and gave him the practical skills to approach law school—and his profession—as if he were already operating in the real world. Just out of Cardozo at age 25, he launched his own firm dedicated to helping 9/11 victims and their families, ensuring they are cared for even after their loved ones have passed.He also reflects on the personal practices that sustain him: writing poetry, building a family-run music label with his wife, Keep Good Company, and involving his children in creative ventures that balance the intensity of legal work. Throughout the conversation, Matthew emphasizes the importance of caring for yourself so you can better care for your clients.This inspiring episode highlights the many ways a Cardozo education can empower graduates to serve their communities while forging fulfilling, grounded lives both inside and outside the law. Cardozo School of Law