Expanding My Legal Prowess To Accomplish A Career In Advocacy

“The most important part of this job is listening” is a piece of advice I received from a prominent litigator within the firm early on in my career at Morgan & Morgan, P. A. The phrase seems simple to follow, yet it is a skill that must be practiced every day. Having the privilege to represent clients in legal matters requires an attorney to think, speak, and act on behalf of the client and their best interests. How can we do that if we do not actively listen to them? Each client has unique needs because they are humans, not case numbers.

I am confident that admission to Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law would allow me to use my time and talents wisely by sharpening my skills and expanding my legal prowess. The Trial and Appellate Advocacy Program, is particularly appealing to me because of the ability of students to practice critical skills and participate in mock trials. I am applying for the part-time program because I plan to continue working full-time, however, I am committed to being a part of the campus community and getting the most out of my legal education.

Currently, I am gainfully employed as a Pre-Suit Case Manager at Morgan & Morgan, P. A. , the nation’s largest plaintiff’s firm. The experience has driven my ambition to attend law school. As a Case Manager, I am responsible for a wide range of tasks including: taking the client’s initial account of the story, coordinating with medical facilities to ensure clients are getting the care that they need, negotiating pre-suit settlement with insurance adjusters and attorneys, and preparing closing statements to settle cases. In between the organized chaos of managing over one hundred cases at a time, I have been selected by management to train incoming case managers, which has proven to be fulfilling because I love helping people grow. With any business, the objective is to make a profit and deliver an exceptional experience. I have consistently exceeded the firm’s standards in regards to settlements. To date, I have settled 161 cases and brought in over 1 million dollars in contingency fees. I have a special ability to deliver results and excellent client experience, I have attached a client’s testimonial to my application as an example. Working for Morgan & Morgan for over 2 years has allowed me to gain confidence, knowledge, and make professional relationships within the field. I am truly honored to work “For The People”.

My time at University of South Florida was well spent. I not only left with a Bachelor’s degree, but life long friends and memorable experiences that I will cherish forever. I was a busy Bull, I studied full-time, worked 2 jobs, and made time for causes I am passionate about. Much of my focus was political in nature, including lobbying on Capitol Hill for veterans with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and peace between nations with American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). My research internship with IAVA included conducting group interviews of post-Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans to learn more about their experiences in the armed forces and the struggles they encountered when returning to civilian life. With AIPAC, I traveled to Washington D. C. several times to attend policy conferences and influence legislation by meeting with members of Congress. I concluded my college career by volunteering for Senator Marco Rubio’s Presidential campaign.

I consider my undergraduate experiences to be the foundation of my leadership and advocacy skills that I continue to build on in my career. Earning a Juris Doctorate is a personal goal because I am the first member of my family to graduate with a Bachelor’s degree and pursue a professional degree. Women are underrepresented in lead counsel and partner positions. Being given the opportunity to attend law school would allow me to be a part of the effort to close the disparity and set an example for future female litigators. As a daughter, sister, friend, and hopefully future mother, I want to inspire others to pursue their dreams no matter how challenging they may seem. I have a clear vision for my future and understand the steps necessary to get there. I am driven by the aspiration that I will be able to help people get through difficult situations by listening to them and providing counsel. Each opportunity that I have seized has shaped me into the woman I am.

My professional goals include being employed at a mid-large sized civil firm where I can litigate and eventually become Board Certified in Civil Trial by the Florida Bar. Since Florida is home to me, NSU’s location in sunny Ft. Lauderdale is appealing because of its booming growth and beautiful beaches. As a Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law graduate, I have complete confidence that I will have an accomplished career and make for a notable alumnus. Go sharks!