Public Interest Law, Lateefah Simon & The PI/PS Launch Celebration Event

By Erica L. Morris
Graduate Fellow, Law Career Development

Just in time for National Pro Bono week, GGU Law is celebrating its students, faculty, alumni and staff who engage in legal service to their communities, and we are celebrating with a very special guest...

Public Interest Law is a cumulative array of industries and practice areas focused on improving the lives of everyone. Those who enter into public interest law may work in a government agency, such as by defending youth from wrongful criminal convictions. Or they may work for a public interest organization that helps victims of domestic violence. Or they may even speak out to improve civil and human rights in a foreign country. Or perhaps, they may "be the attorney who works on community economic development and helps minority-owned small businesses become incorporated. As a public interest lawyer you will be the attorney who ensures liberty and justice for all."

The public interest law sector is vast, and no matter your interest, there is a place for you to fit in - either as a career or as side pro bono work done apart from or within a fee generating practice.  It just takes one person to enact change. Take Lateefah Simon, for an example.

In Your Own Words:Grüezi aus der Schweiz!!

John Andy Brunner-Brown (JD 13)

Less than 48 hours after my last exam, the airplane touched down with a friendly notice from the flight crew - “Willkommen in die Schweiz; welcome to Switzerland.” Yet, spending my four weeks of winter break as a legal intern in the town of Zug instead of relaxing posed a potential problem: would the work burn me out or would the experience revitalize me? Fortunately, I quickly realized that working for Zwicky Windlin & Partner would be well worth the risk.

Despite having had only one semester of law school, the work was completely within the capacity of my legal education. On top of writing legal memoranda and researching international civil laws, the firm gave me opportunities to translate contract clauses, to meet with clients (either with a partner or alone) and even to draft a contract for a loan. Luckily, work did not always keep me in the office. By train or by car I traveled to Bern (the capital), to Altdorf (the hometown of the legendary William Tell), and to Morgarten to see the monument of the Battle of Morgarten. It’s always a pleasure traveling through the magnificent Alps and along the breathtaking lakes.

Even though the visit was short, my coworkers and roommates included me in their activities as if we had been old friends. Events outside of work included several dinners at “the boss’ house,” Christmas and New Year’s celebrations with my roommates and sledding during the lunch break.

Though I risked burning out in order to gain practical experience, the gamble paid off. Not only did I learn a great deal and gain valuable real-world experience, I was also able to enjoy the charms of a foreign country: its culture, beautiful scenery and delicious foods (Swiss cheeses and chocolates are amazing!). Most importantly, the experience re-energized me and made me all the more excited for the upcoming semester and my future legal career.

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In Your Own Words is an opportunity for GGU School of Law students and alumni to share the wisdom they have gained from experience. If you would like to contribute a blog entry regarding your job and/or externship experiences or your job search, please email us or call 415 442-6625.