Week four offered a good balance of substantive legal work and time spent connecting with colleagues, both in and out of the office.
I spent much of the week working on a reply in support of a dispositive motion, which required digging into the strategy behind the filing and understanding how each argument supports our overall position. I also had the opportunity to explore the discovery process in greater depth on a separate matter. Seeing discovery unfold in practice, rather than in the abstract terms discussed in law school, provided a much clearer picture of how cases are developed over time.
The Miami attorney lunch this week focused on the growing importance of mediation and the value of strong negotiation skills. Both require thoughtful preparation and strategy, and effective negotiation is a skill that develops through experience. Hearing how experienced attorneys approach both gave me plenty to think about as I continue building those skills myself.
The week also included an associate happy hour and the firm’s summer party at partner Josh Lerner’s house. Both were great opportunities to connect with colleagues outside the office and get to know everyone on a more personal level.
As I settle into the Summer Associate Program, I continue to gain a greater appreciation for the many skills that go into effective advocacy, both inside and outside the courtroom. I can’t wait to see what week five has in store.
