Summer Associates Reflect on Their Most Impactful Assignments at Foley Mansfield

As summer draws to a close, we’d like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate Foley Mansfield’s exceptional summer associates. Prior to the summer term coming to an end, each summer associate shared feedback with FM, including their most meaningful assignment during their time with us and what made the experience especially valuable.

Many summer associates in their feedback highlighted the complexity and impact of the work they were entrusted with, noting how it sharpened and expanded skills they had gained in the classroom, and their pride in contributing to significant, ongoing litigation. Another consistent theme stood out in a number of their reflections: deep appreciation for the mentorship received while at Foley Mansfield.

Brittany Findley, Summer Associate in Miami:

One of my most memorable assignments at the firm was drafting a Motion for Protective Order. This was my first time writing a motion entirely from scratch, but it proved to be a challenging and rewarding experience that required me to dive deep into legal research. From identifying the relevant case law to crafting persuasive arguments, the process sharpened my skills and gave me a sense of ownership over my work. Thanks to the feedback I received from Eddie Medina, I was able to produce a motion that effectively encompassed our argument.

Lauren Williamson, Summer Associate in Chicago:

One of the most meaningful projects I worked on as a summer associate was drafting a motion for summary judgment in a federal court case. It was an incredible opportunity to apply my legal research and writing skills in a high-stakes setting and to contribute substantively to the firm’s litigation strategy. The complexity of the legal issues and the importance of the outcome made the experience both challenging and rewarding. I’m especially grateful for the invaluable guidance I received from Jessica Espinoza and Alaina Jraige, who took the time to walk me through their thought process, provide constructive feedback, and help me grow as a legal writer. Their mentorship made a lasting impact on my experience.

Aisha Sabar, Summer Associate in New York:

My most meaningful project during my Summer Associateship with FM was my Summer Project which consisted of drafting a publishable article regarding punitive damages. I was able to research and learn about punitives under New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania State law as well as federal standards and maritime law. My work had practical significance for our cases in these jurisdictions, and under the expert guidance of Dennis Vega, a co-managing partner at the FM New York City office, I got to explore in depth a topic relevant not just to NYCAL litigation, but litigation in general.

Sarah Chaoui, Summer Associate in Minneapolis:

One of the most meaningful assignments I worked on this summer was researching and drafting memoranda arguing for and against the admission of evidence for a harassment restraining order hearing. I am especially grateful that the assigning attorney, Jake Peden, trusted me with this responsibility just days before the hearing. He also took the time to give in depth feedback on the memos that helped me to hone my research and writing skills. On the day of the hearing, he took even more time to review common objection with me and even encouraged me to make objections if the opportunity arose. Although the case settled before that was necessary, the experience was incredibly valuable. It helped me bridge the gap between what I have been learning in law school and how those legal principles play out in the practice of law.

Emil Andreasyan, Summer Associate in Los Angeles

One of the most meaningful assignments I completed was drafting a Motion for Summary Judgment involving complex issues of settlement enforcement and Civil Code section 1542. I conducted all the case law research from scratch, reviewed and interpreted the parties’ settlement agreement, analyzed Plaintiff’s Complaint, and identified inconsistencies with their current claims. Carlos Valenzuela gave me full autonomy to structure and write the argument—despite initially expressing doubt that I would find any supporting authority. His trust gave me the confidence to think critically, craft a compelling legal position, and advocate persuasively. I’m genuinely thankful to Carlos for trusting me with such a high-stakes assignment, which pushed me to grow both technically and strategically as a future litigator.

Cesia Mejia, Summer Associate in Los Angeles

The most meaningful project I worked on this summer involved researching a complex legal issue that did not have a clear answer. I spent a significant amount of time on the assignment and wrote a memo outlining my findings. After submitting it, I felt uncertain about the result and followed up with the attorney to apologize for not providing a stronger answer. I truly appreciated attorney Virginia Wong who took the time to respond and personally call me. She reassured me that there are times when the law does not provide a straightforward solution, and that even inconclusive research can still play a critical role in shaping case strategy and supporting our clients. Her support and mentorship helped me realize that I am more capable than I initially believed, and that I should have confidence in the quality of my work. As long as I communicate openly and approach challenges thoughtfully, I am on the right path. I also learned that part of being a good attorney is making sure we are fully informed on the issues we are facing, so we can best prepare and advocate for our clients.

Sarah Owen, Summer Associate in St. Louis

The most meaningful assignment I have worked on so far this summer is a Motion for Summary Judgement that addressed two separate legal issues. I enjoyed working with Alexa Benson and Katie Pritchard, especially because of their willingness to any answer questions I had and provide advice. It was very rewarding to see the skills I learned in my LARC class be applied to a real assignment, both research and writing wise.