My third week as a Rumberger summer associate has come to an end and I can easily say this has been my favorite week so far.

On Tuesday, I watched a virtual mediation with Orlando Administrative Partner Chase Hattaway. Since I worked on a research memo for that same case last week, it was amazing hearing Chase argue a lot of the points I had looked into for my memo!
Also on Tuesday, I was able to test my advocacy skills during the Deposition Workshop. Each summer associate took turns asking the plaintiff, played by Associate Alex Melvin, questions and thinking on our feet when we were given challenging answers. Partner David Marsey, who also led our Deposition Seminar last week, watched and gave feedback at the end of each mock deposition. Although I was nervous at first, I found that I really thrived when I was challenged to get away from my notes!
The very next day, Sam and I observed partner Jennifer Thomas as she deposed a plaintiff in a personal injury case. Between my workshop and Jennifer’s real deposition, I have learned so much about civility, strategy, and clear communication in a deposition setting.

Sam and I closed out the week with a delicious lunch with Managing Partner Frank Sheppard and Associate Hannah Steele at Hillstone. It was great to talk about Frank’s trial experience, the different practice groups Frank and Hannah are part of, and cool places to visit in Winter Park (I need all the suggestions as a Central Florida newbie!).
While in between the action, I’ve had the opportunity to research and write for practice groups ranging from premises liability to employment discrimination. To top everything off, Sam and I were able to observe closing arguments for Partner Damien Orato’s trial in Osceola County. I couldn’t help but notice how Damien’s oral advocacy skills captivated the jury members. I definitely took notes on his techniques as a reference for the mock trial at the end of July! No surprise at all, it was a defense verdict! After hearing from the attorneys how most cases settle, I know I’m lucky to have watched even part of a trial in week three!
All in all, it’s been an exciting week!