Our 2024 Summer Associate Program brought 13 law students from five law schools to the firm for an intellectually challenging and professionally gratifying experience. The students took part in firm-sponsored social events and community service projects throughout the summer in addition to attending client meetings, depositions, court hearings and other proceedings. Nearing the end of the program, the students agreed to share a few highlights from their summer at Shutts.
Brandon D. Abzug joined Shutts’ West Palm Beach office for the summer from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Brandon is a member of the Student Bar Association and a Levin Ambassador.
Brandon shares his thoughts on his summer experience at Shutts.
What were the three most memorable experiences throughout your time here?
It has truly been an incredible summer. My most memorable experiences at Shutts thus far are as follows:
My first memorable experience was attending court and visiting the Fort Lauderdale office for a day. In the morning, I drove to the Broward County Courthouse and watched a hearing against a pro se litigant. It was my first time attending an in-person court hearing, and it was even more significant as the courthouse building is named after my former mentor and friend, Walter G. “Skip” Campbell, Jr. I had an exciting and meaningful experience.
My second memorable experience was participating in the Summer Associate events in Miami. Throughout the two-day program, I was able to meet not only the Summer Associates in other offices throughout the state, but also various Associates and Partners in Miami, who gave me insightful advice on how to be a successful young attorney. We also helped package thousands of pounds of food for Feeding South Florida, which was another very impactful experience.
My final memorable experience was attending a hearing at the Palm Beach County Courthouse in West Palm Beach. I had the opportunity to observe a direct examination of an expert witness and watch arguments before a judge. I appreciated being able to be present in the strategy room between breaks and offer my perspective on the case. This experience reminded me that the skills I have learned in law school certainly apply to the real-world practice of law. I look forward to what is to come.
If you could go back to the first day of the summer program and give yourself a piece of advice, what would it be?
I would emphasize the importance of staying positive when performing legal research, as many of the assigned questions posed do not have unambiguous answers. In many instances, the legal issue may be interpreted in a variety of ways, requiring an attorney to carefully examine case law and statutes to analogize or differentiate fact patterns. There may not be a case directly on point, but use what is available to make the best possible analysis and recommendation.
What were your expectations for the summer and have they been met (or exceeded)?
I was aware of how exceptional Shutts was from others who knew of the firm, and I had high expectations for a great summer. I am proud to say that my expectations have been exceeded. I enjoy going to work every day, learning about business litigation, and gaining a better understanding of various aspects of the law. I particularly value my time researching and writing, and I use my abilities to assist our clients and the firm every day.