The time is flying by so fast. It is difficult to believe that I am almost a third of the way done with the Summer Associate Program – I feel like it just started! On the other hand, I’m acutely aware of how much I have learned in such a short timeframe, which is exciting.
This week, I worked on several interesting assignments, including a couple of employment issues for partner Chase Hattaway, which I found quite fun. Beyond public records law and ethical obligations, I also dipped my toes into first amendment law. After a few hours of research, I understood why the first amendment is a topic that has entire courses devoted to it! I also worked on a research assignment related to a Daubert motion for partner Candy Messersmith – unrelated to our Summer Associate Writing Competition Daubert Motion (I promise!). It helped hone my ability to restrain my research and provide information in a quick-to-read and easily digestible format.
Beyond completing and receiving several other research assignments this week, I attended a Motion Writing seminar, hosted by partner Samantha Duke. I was happy to listen to advice that resonated with what I have learned in the past and what I learned on the fly while preparing my Motion to Dismiss for Managing Partner Frank Sheppard. Key Takeaways: Be concise, and don’t rely on a hearing! Judges in state courts are relying more and more heavily on written motions. I was grateful for the advice as we all continue to work on our Daubert motion for the Writing Competition during our free time.
The week sailed by, but on Thursday, some of the Orlando associates and I took an afternoon coffee break at Starbucks. That was a treat and it was so fun to take a little break and catch up with everyone. Plus, I love an afternoon (sometimes even an evening) coffee!
On Friday, the other summer associates and I attended a workshop on Evidence presented by associate Alex Melvin. I found it especially useful since I won’t take an evidence class until this fall, and it was nice to gain a better understanding of objections that we will be utilizing later this summer in the mock trial. I know I will be referring to those notes when I begin preparations. I appreciated that the advice was geared towards practical use and what he has found most important to know from his four years as an attorney.
Later Friday afternoon, I had the pleasure of going to lunch with partners Lan Kennedy-Davis and Kristin Sanchez. We had a lot of fun chatting over our meals at Solita Tacos & Margaritas. From discussing language learning to recounting jet skiing adventures, it was a good time with good food and kind people. I also received a small research assignment regarding lis pendens, which will be a nice opportunity to learn about different aspects of collecting judgments.
All in all it was a fantastic week, and I am looking forward to the next one!
