Our 2021 Winter Clerkship Program brought six law students for an intellectually challenging and professionally gratifying experience. The program normally takes places during the summer, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearing the end of the program, the students agreed to share a few highlights from their experience at Shutts.
Kendall joined us from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, where she is Editor of the Florida Law Review and previously served as the 1L Representative for the Real Property Law Association. Her previous experience as a Law Clerk included research of the Florida Assignment of Benefits legislation and its effect on insurance laws.
Here is what Kendall had to say about her clerkship at Shutts.
What were the three most memorable experiences throughout your time here?
While it has been a unique experience participating in this program during the COVID-19 pandemic, I have had many memorable experiences. First, I had the opportunity to sit in on a deposition via zoom. It was very interesting and exciting to experience this, especially in a new format. Second, I conducted research on a motion to strike and my research was used in a response brief. Lastly, I conducted research on adverse possession of an easement. Although it does not appear very interesting, I loved my property course in law school, and it was exciting to be able to return to a subject that I enjoyed so much.
What knowledge and/or skills will you be taking with you after completing the program?
My research and writing skills have improved significantly. Also, having the opportunity to research a wide array of legal issues, topics, and procedures has left me with a greater understanding of the law and the law firm environment generally.
What were your expectations and have they been met (or exceeded)?
My initial expectations were that I would be working very hard and learning a lot of new information and areas of the law. I also expected to meet many great people and develop new relationships with attorneys in the office. My expectations were far exceeded at Shutts. I met many welcoming attorneys in the office, and I was able to form new and enriching relationships. Also, not only have I learned an immense amount, but I have improved upon my research and writing and have developed new analytical skills. My experience at Shutts, even though it was during a challenging time, has truly been wonderful.
What challenge(s) did the pandemic present for your clerkship? How did you overcome those challenges?
Since most of the firm was still working from home, and everyone has to wear a mask inside the building, it was somewhat of a challenge to form deeper relationships with attorneys in the office. While everyone was super welcoming and friendly, social distancing does end up getting in the way of socializing. In order to overcome this, I tried to get to know to every person I came across, and I formed relationships with people in an outdoor environment. For instance, some of the Associates and I would walk somewhere outside to grab lunch. These moments were the most memorable because we were able to talk to each other without the constraints of a mask and also get to know each other outside of the law firm environment.
About Shutts & Bowen LLP
Established in 1910, Shutts & Bowen is a full-service business law firm with approximately 300 lawyers with offices in Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, Sarasota, Tallahassee, Tampa and West Palm Beach. Learn more about Shutts & Bowen at www.shutts.com.