Rising 2L Starre Williams combines her passions for law and education interning on the Los Angeles Unified School District's general liability litigation team, where she deals with both civil and criminal general liability suits against the school district. Working on these complex cases has strengthened Williams' legal acumen and resilience.
How did you land your summer job?
I landed my summer job at the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) through the Public Interest Career Day organized by Loyola. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with various employers and assess how each of them could fit with my passion for law and youth education. After interviewing with LAUSD, I knew that’s where I wanted to work for my summer internship. I was thrilled to be offered a position on the General Liability Litigation team. My strong interest in youth education and public defense work motivated me to apply, and I am so grateful to be contributing to such a vital organization.
What is the most interesting part of your job?
The most interesting part of my job is undoubtedly the diversity and complexity of the cases that I handle. Working on the General Liability Litigation team, I deal with both civil and criminal general liability suits against the school district. While many cases, such as those involving sexual assault and negligence, are profoundly sad, they are also eye-opening. These cases reveal the serious issues within the school district and underscore the importance of our work. Being involved in the settlement and mediation processes is incredibly rewarding as well, and next week, I’ll have the opportunity to sit in on depositions, which promises to be an invaluable learning experience.
What has been your most challenging assignment thus far?
The most challenging assignment so far has been my involvement in the defense on cases involving child injuries, deaths, and sexual assaults. It’s incredibly tough to navigate the emotional and moral complexities of these situations while still advocating for the best interests of the school district. The district’s various immunities from liability add another layer of complexity. However, these challenges have pushed me to develop my legal acumen and resilience, making the work deeply fulfilling despite its difficulties.
What new legal skill have you acquired during your summer job?
During my summer job, I’ve significantly improved my legal research skills and my ability to form lines of questioning for depositions and discovery. Drafting memoranda and a motion for summary judgment has been a crucial part of my role, which I really appreciate.
What bit of legal knowledge have you been able to display?
I’ve had the chance to apply and showcase the knowledge I’ve gained from my evidence and torts classes, including understanding the nuances of liability and the intricacies of presenting evidence. My background as an insurance adjuster has also proven invaluable, as I’ve been able to provide expert advice on liability in car accident claims. This combination of academic knowledge and practical experience has enabled me to contribute meaningfully to my team.
How has Loyola helped you map your career path?
Loyola has been instrumental in shaping my career path. The school’s reputable support system and opportunities, specifically the Public Interest Career Day and help from my career counselor Rebecca Ruschell, have opened doors that I wouldn’t have known existed. My experiences at Loyola have helped me discover my strong interest in in-house counsel roles, particularly within educational institutions, as well as public defender work. The guidance and resources provided by Loyola have been pivotal in steering my career towards a fulfilling and impactful direction and I am truly grateful.