The firm’s Summer Associate program offers law students practical legal experience following their first and second years of law school. During this program, Summer Associates engage in active client matters, and assist by, among other things, drafting briefs and transactional documents; participating in depositions, arbitration, and mediation sessions; attending client meetings; and observing courtroom procedures. We took the opportunity to speak with each associate to learn about their interests both within and beyond the legal field. First up is August Darrow.

• What inspired you to pursue a career in law?
  • During my first summer of college, I spent time shadowing Assistant U.S. Attorneys here in Davenport.  In observing trials and talking with the AUSAs about their strategies and legal arguments, I was inspired by how attorneys are in a unique position to serve the community by making the law more accessible to everyone from jury members to clients.
• Was there a specific moment or experience that confirmed you were on the right path?
  • During my second year of law school, I took part in my school’s Law & Entrepreneurship Clinic.  Under the supervision of an attorney, this clinic allowed me to take the lead in managing my own clients and assist them with their entrepreneurial efforts.  I knew I chose the right profession after helping my first client form an LLC, register a trademark and draft customer agreements for his business.  It was a rewarding experience to help a small business owner protect his ideas and manage risk.
• Tell us about a case you studied in law school that made a deep impact on you. Why did it resonate?
  • Hawkins v. McGee, or the “hairy hand case.”  This case involves a breach of contract claim after a skin graft gone wrong left a boy’s palm growing hair.  This case resonated with me because out of all the cases students read in law school, lawyers seem to remember this one the most.  Therefore, reading it felt like completing a rite of passage and confirmed that I was on my way to becoming a lawyer myself.
• What is a non-legal hobby or interest you have that might surprise us?
  • I enjoy skiing and exploring Midwestern ski hills.  One of the perks of going to law school in Wisconsin is the proximity to a variety of ski hills such as Tyrol Basin, Alpine Valley and Granite Peak.
• What’s a book, podcast, or documentary you’ve recently enjoyed — legal or not?
  • The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway.  The book provides a good reminder that our greatest catch could still be ahead of us, and we should not be too proud to ask for help in reeling in that goal.
• QUICK ROUND:
  • Favorite legal tv series or movie?
    • The Rainmaker
  • Preferred study snack?
    • Pretzels
  • Most used legal jargon?
    • Thereto