Michael's Story

I was looking for a summer associate position at a firm that is tied in to the business community in Seattle, a firm that serious business people would look to for high quality legal services. I wanted to work with accomplished professionals who could teach me not only how to practice law, but how to be a great attorney. I needed a setting where attorneys would tolerate my intellectual curiosity, rather than seek to suppress it. Most of all, I wanted a results-oriented firm that provides legitimate value in legal services.

Ashbaugh Beal was all of these things and much more. From my first day I was given assignments regarding major commercial litigation and transactions. Throughout the summer I was invited to interact with clients and witnesses, even to the extent of allowing me to pose questions and present legal arguments. I had the opportunity to participate in a mediation, a deposition, and to create work product that would be seen by clients, opposing parties and the court. My work product was rigorously reviewed by some of the best practicing attorneys in the city, which greatly enhanced my legal research and writing skills. The attorneys not only tolerated my tendency to question and argue, they encouraged me to think outside the box and pursue my arguments even when they disagreed. And best of all, every task I was assigned was carefully calculated to provide maximum value and results for clients.

I would have been perfectly content with the amazing intellectual and professional growth that my summer position offered, but that was not enough for the attorneys and staff at Ashbaugh Beal. They made sure that I had a great time as well. From lunches at great restaurants to frequent outings to ball games, I was treated to the best the city has to offer. I was even invited to attend a firm dodgeball game at a partner's home, but no one held my poor dodgeball skills against me.

All of these social activities were great, but what made them so much fun was the people at Ashbaugh Beal I shared them with. From the start, I was made to feel welcome and comfortable. The staff and attorneys frequently went out of their way to make sure that I had everything I needed and that I was happy in my work. I was encouraged to ask for help and advice, and such requests were never once refused. The environment was friendly, supportive and felt like the perfect fit for me.

I had a great summer at Ashbaugh Beal, and I eagerly await my return to the firm after law school. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have found a position at a firm that fosters an environment of intellectual freedom amongst great attorneys focused on achieving results for their clients. I cannot wait to get back to work!

Michael Richard,
Ashbaugh Beal Summer Associate, 2010