Our 2022 Summer Associate Program brought seven law students 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.
Brenna Morecraft joined us from Florida State University College of Law, where she is an Articles Editor for the Florida State University Law Review. She previously was a Summer Law Clerk for the United States Attorney’s Office.
Here is what Brenna had to say about her summer at Shutts.
What did you do before coming to Shutts?
Last summer, I clerked at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida in the Civil Litigation Division. This past spring, I clerked at Legal Services of North Florida where I assisted domestic violence victims in receiving protective injunctions. I was also a research assistant to my Constitutional Law professor and a brief writer for a moot court team. Before law school, I attended Florida State University.
What advice would you give to someone looking for a summer clerkship and how to succeed in it?
I would advise an applicant to be very open about exploring different practice areas. I was honest during my interview that I was unsure whether I was leaning towards litigation or transactional work and this allowed me to earnestly explore everything Shutts had to offer. By being exposed to nearly every practice at Shutts, I was able to narrow down my interests via real world experiences. I would also advise to be prepared to learn from your mistakes. Take the opportunities to get feedback from your supervisors who have a wealth of experience to share.
What knowledge and/or skills will you be taking with you after completing the program?
My drafting skills and attention to detail have improved significantly. Also, having been immersed in the firm for ten weeks and attending the first ever Associate Seminar, my understanding of expectations for associates and how law firms operate has helped me feel more prepared to enter the legal field after graduation and demystified what it is like to be an attorney.
What were your expectations and have they been met (or exceeded)?
I expected this summer to be a great learning opportunity and to develop a better understanding of what type of law I would like to practice. I also expected to meet and develop relationships with attorneys in the office. My expectations were exceeded at Shutts. I really enjoyed the positive culture at the firm and always felt that I could ask for guidance from any of our experienced attorneys or support staff. I also feel that I have a better understanding of the area of law I would like to pursue.
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.