This summer, I had the extraordinary opportunity to work as a Law Clerk at Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel – Florida Injury Lawyers in the firm’s West Palm Beach office. I conducted legal research, reviewed medical records, drafted legal memoranda, and assisted attorneys with a variety of litigation matters. I also attended depositions, mediations, client meetings, and consultations with prospective clients, giving me a firsthand look at the different stages of the intake, pre-suit, and litigation processes.
I am grateful that an attorney who I previously worked with recommended me to former Florida Bar President and Managing Partner Gary Lesser (J.D. ’92,) who offered me this clerkship opportunity. Under the guidance of Partner Ryan McCarthy (J.D. ’13), I worked on a variety of cases, including a motorcycle wrongful death matter, a contingency business case involving a reality TV star and several cases where the firm is pursuing cruise lines for their negligent treatment of passengers.
Working on such a wide range of matters gave me experience with many aspects of a case. I researched legal issues, prepared memoranda, reviewed medical records, organized case materials and assisted with ongoing matters as they developed. Reviewing treatment records, imaging reports and physician notes showed me how attorneys use medical documentation to evaluate claims, prepare for depositions and develop case strategy. I also saw how much preparation goes into every deposition, mediation and hearing, and how each assignment helps move a case forward.
That preparation often led to opportunities to participate more directly. The clerkship was very hands-on, and I was able to assist with depositions and mediations, communicate with clients and witnesses, and help conduct interviews. I saw how attorneys worked through issues with opposing counsel and insurance adjusters while coordinating with paralegals and other members of the firm to keep cases moving.
One notable case involved a motorcyclist who tragically died after being hit by an Uber driver. I researched policy and insurance information, reviewed case materials and later observed the depositions of both the driver and the decedent’s parent. The most valuable part of my clerkship was being able to contribute rather than simply observe. Attorneys welcomed my input on potential questions and strategic issues during depositions and mediations and, when appropriate, used questions I suggested.
My internship also gave me opportunities with the broader legal community. The firm is very active in voluntary bar associations, and Ryan McCarthy serves on the Board of Directors of the Palm Beach County Bar Association. I had the privilege of attending one of its conferences, which focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence in the legal profession. Attorneys from a variety of practice areas discussed how they are using AI for legal research, document review and other aspects of their work, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding its use.
The firm’s commitment to serving the community was another important part of my experience. I joined the firm’s attorneys and staff in volunteering at the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach, where we assembled hygiene kits for individuals in need. It was rewarding to contribute to an effort that reflected the firm’s longstanding dedication to giving back.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the camaraderie among the attorneys and the way they worked together. During monthly attorney lunches, they discussed current cases, recent legal developments and topics such as business analytics, marketing and the firm’s continued growth.
These experiences made my summer at the firm both valuable and memorable. I am thankful to Gary Lesser, Ryan McCarthy and the rest of the team at Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel – Florida Injury Lawyers for welcoming me and giving me the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work. I appreciated the chance to learn from experienced attorneys, ask questions and take part in assignments that gave me a much better understanding of legal practice.
