Presenter: Keith Dominguez, Senior Associate Director of Career Development at Brooklyn Law School.
Background: Nearly five years at Brooklyn Law School, experienced corporate attorney trained in various areas of law including capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, and startups.
Purpose of Program: Discuss professionalism and strategies to succeed at a summer internship, as part of a course called "How to Do Well at Your Summer Internship."
Professionalism
Definition: Professionalism is conducting oneself in a way that exemplifies the highest ideals of the legal profession.
The term may have various interpretations but will be contextualized within a legal work environment.
Emphasis on not changing one’s identity; authenticity is key.
Professional Approach
Interacting with Others
Importance of treating all colleagues with kindness and respect.
Acknowledge that all staff, including attorneys, paralegals, and administrative support, have their own responsibilities.
Understanding Expectations
Determining work expectations upon starting an internship.
Clarify details such as the expected working hours: full-time schedule can vary from 9-5 or 8-6.
Dress Attire
Dress code varies by employer; dressing style should mirror that of the attorneys in the office.
Recommend starting with formal and conservative attire (e.g., wearing a suit) until acclimated to the office culture.
Understanding Workplace Hierarchy
Importance of knowing who reports to whom within the employer's structure.
Recognizing that assignments may come from various levels of attorneys (junior, senior, partner).
When multiple assignments are given, communicate effectively with all parties involved regarding priority and deadlines.
Professional Communication
Oral Communication
Maintain professionalism in verbal interactions; be friendly but appropriate.
Written Communication
Every email is a reflection of your professional abilities. Best practices include:
Avoiding abbreviations, emojis, and informal language.
Respond promptly to emails; acknowledging receipt even if action will take time reflects professionalism.
Use of Cell Phones
Limit cell phone use during work hours, especially during meetings or direct interactions with supervisors.
Emphasize handwritten notes over digital devices to foster engagement.
Working Remotely
Understand expectations for remote work in terms of hours and connectivity.
Maintain professionalism in virtual settings:
Choose appropriate backgrounds for video calls.
Ensure confidentiality when working from shared living spaces.
Internship Experience
View the summer as an extended interview; each assignment matters toward future opportunities.
Avoid taking time off for vacations during internships unless absolutely necessary.
Navigating Assignments
Getting Assignments
Understand early on how assignments are distributed (formal coordination or informal).
Engage proactively with team members to acquire work and meet others.
Clarifying Assignment Details
Upon receiving an assignment, ask key questions about jurisdiction, desired work product, and deadlines.
Be proactive about completing low-priority assignments to avoid disappointment at the internship's end.
Handling Competing Deadlines
Communicate any potential conflicts with deadlines early.
It’s not your responsibility to prioritize but rather to seek guidance from supervisors.
Ethical Obligations
Confidentiality
Protecting sensitive information is paramount, especially in client interactions and documentation.
Do not discuss case details without client consent; handle sensitive materials appropriately (e.g., shredding).
Supervision
Seek guidance from licensed attorneys for approval on legal matters since interns are not licensed.
Conflict of Interest
Disclose any potential conflicts immediately to appropriate supervisors.
Competence and Professional Responsibility
Maintain the same standards as a licensed attorney; deadlines are critical and can affect clients' outcomes.
The No Contact Rule
Avoid reaching out to represented clients without their attorney's permission.
Use of Technology
Artificial Intelligence
Strongly discourage the use of AI tools for assignments unless explicitly authorized; focus on developing personal skills.
Avoid using AI for legal research to circumvent critical skill building.
Building Professional Relationships
Mentorship
Importance of seeking mentorship from experienced attorneys.
Encourage developing both formal and informal mentor relationships throughout the internship.
Networking
Engage during social events and be mindful of alcohol consumption; maintain professionalism in all networking situations.
Social Media Presence
Clean up social media accounts and consider making them private.
Create a professional LinkedIn profile with details mirroring your resume.
Confidential Communications
Refrain from public statements about cases unless explicitly told otherwise by employers.
Conclusion
Ensure all assignments are completed, including transition memos where necessary.
Thank and connect with colleagues before concluding your summer internship to retain and nurture professional relationships.
Reach out to career advisors for support throughout the internship and professional development journey.
Overall emphasis on professionalism, diligence, and integrity throughout the internship experience.