Four weeks into my summer at RumbergerKirk and I can’t believe how fast it is flying by. As I mapped out my planner for the next few weeks, I realized I am almost halfway through the summer!
This week I got a great glimpse into the pre-trial process. Early in the week I was able to attend a plaintiff’s deposition and a witness deposition with Devin Topper, as well as deposition prep with a defendant. It was my first time witnessing deposition preparation, and I learned so much about how much thoughtful communication, case strategy, and anticipation of opposing questions goes into preparing a defendant. Seeing that process unfold gave me a much deeper understanding of how attorneys tailor their approach to the nuances of each case.
I also had the opportunity to attend a mediation with Alexander Melvin, who was incredibly generous in sharing his approach to the negotiation side of litigation. He walked us through his strategy, explained how he anticipated and responded to the other side’s offers, and offered practical tips for when we eventually lead mediations.
Finally, one of the highlights of my week was traveling to Tampa with partner Steve Klein for a deposition of an expert. Steve has quickly become someone I really look up to, not only for his talent as an attorney but for the way he mentors and supports the summer associates. While the professional experience was invaluable, the long car ride might have been just as memorable. Steve shared great stories, thoughtful advice, and even a few favorite recipes (the kitchen appliances he recommended are already on their way from Amazon).
Week after week, I’m reminded how intentional RumbergerKirk is about giving summer associates meaningful experiences. Whether we’re in a courtroom, a conference room, or grabbing lunch with a partner, we’re constantly learning!
P.S. Please keep Julia and I’s orchids in your thoughts and prayers. We forgot to water them last week and they are side-eyeing us from the corners of our desks. My friends may have been right when they named mine “Doomed.”
