As Ansell.Law’s summer program concludes, Summer Associates Olivia Benedetto and Frank Illiano are preparing to return to Seton Hall University School of Law for their third year. Before they left, we sat down to discuss their time at the Firm and hear insights from their experiences.
What were your favorite parts of the summer program?
FI: Working closely and learning from the talented attorneys was my favorite part of the summer program. The Firm hosted several events that created opportunities for us to connect with people from all the offices. I also enjoyed working and collaborating with Olivia, a friend and classmate from Seton Hall Law.
OB: Working closely with many attorneys across different practice areas was fantastic. I also had so much fun at the summer associate events because it allowed me to get to know my coworkers outside the workplace. TopGolf was my favorite!
Was there a special moment or experience that significantly impacted you?
OB: Traveling to the Monmouth County Courthouse to watch Al Caso’s cross-examination and closing argument for a domestic violence matter was stirring. Al’s confidence, preparedness, and ability to advocate for his client were impressive and inspiring to watch.
FI: Working with clients as a summer associate was very rewarding. My first time interacting with clients, I learned so much. I also had the opportunity to attend court with Al Caso and interact with clients, who expressed gratitude and complimented us. Their appreciation was fulfilling and one of the many reasons I want to be a lawyer. That moment motivates me to be a client-focused attorney.
Did a particular practice area pique your interest? Which one and why?
FI: I was interested in family law before participating in Ansell.Law’s Summer Associate program. Working closely with the Matrimonial and Family Law Department provided me with unmatched mentorship, meaningful learning experiences, and an increased passion for this practice area.
OB: Zoning law. I had the opportunity to work with Rick Brodsky on writing an argument for defending a proposed development seeking to house intellectually and developmentally disabled adults.
What surprised you the most about experiencing life in a law firm?
OB: How tight-knit a community the Firm is. Working in a law firm can be very intimidating, but at AGA, adjusting to the work environment was easy because of how welcoming the attorneys and staff were!
FI: Working for a client, outside of the traditional theoretical law school scenario, showed me the weight of the responsibility as an attorney.
What did you learn during the summer program that will benefit you during law school?
OB: During my time at Ansell.Law, I refined my legal writing and analysis skills, which will be an enormous benefit to my participation in my law school’s FINRA Investor Advocacy project. This project allows me to represent real clients in settlement conferences in Federal Court before the District of New Jersey and the Southern/Eastern Districts of New York.
FI: I’m participating in the Family Law Clinic at Seton Hall Law this year, and exposure to family law matters this summer allows me to jump in with less hesitation. My time with the attorneys improved my legal research, writing, and analysis skills. My summer program experience gave me a strong foundation to conduct myself as a diligent and successful attorney. I am excited to continue working as a law clerk at the Firm during the fall semester.