During week five, I had the chance to attend a hearing on a motion for summary judgment in federal court. I had read the briefs, identified opposing counsel’s best arguments, and helped prepare questions the judge might ask. But nothing compared to actually being there. What surprised me most was how natural it felt to follow along. I found myself thinking about how I would respond if I were at the podium. The shift from passively learning to actively engaging was a real turning point for me. It made me realize that I’ve started to think like a litigator, and I have become more confident that this is a job I can do.
It was also exciting to interact directly with opposing counsel and watch how each side laid out the case to favor their client. Watching them go back and forth helped me understand how the legal theory I’ve studied fits into a much larger, more strategic process. I was able to reflect on everything I have learned about legal research, writing, and case preparation and realize that these skills aren’t just academic exercises. Being part of a team that works to shape a case before it reaches the courtroom now feels even more meaningful. It’s not just about getting the law right. It’s about understanding how it will play out when it really matters.
