by Andrew Nicotra Rei and Harry Richardson
Why did you choose Jayaram Law for the summer associate program?
ANR
My path to Jayaram Law actually began as I worked for a Jayayam Law startup client (as someone who eventually hoped to go to law school). I was always impressed and excited by the work that I saw going on even beyond the scope of our engagement. So, when the fall of my first year of law school came to a close, I decided to reach out and see if there were any opportunities with the firm. I loved that I could pivot into a role as a summer associate but still work at a place whose core values were in fostering innovation and growth. Carrying over the thrill of excitement of the startup world while being able to build my own career as a prospective attorney felt like a perfect fit, and so far I haven’t been let down!
HR
I’ve followed Jayaram Law for some time now, and have seen it continue to be a leader in its pursuit of redefining 21st century law firm culture. I have found myself personally invested in the brands in which Jayaram Law represents and think it’s pretty rare (and exciting!) to be buying into something I now have the potential to help protect! I am truly moved by justice, innovation, and yes…sneaker culture—all qualities that surround the nucleus of this dynamic law firm.
What are you most looking forward to gaining experience in this summer?
HR
I am looking forward to learning. I often hear that law school can only teach you so much, and that associateships are what really help you to understand what you like and dislike about lawyering. I hope to learn my likes and dislikes about the law, while assisting the talent that calls Jayaram Law home.
ANR
Coming into my second summer, I’m really excited to have a greater grasp on the kinds of projects that most excited me last year, but that I didn’t get a chance to really pursue either for lack of time or for a lack of realization that I really wanted to explore that. I’m still at a really fortunate point in my life where I can chase the shiny new things, projects, and ideas that come my way while still improving my legal abilities. I’m really most excited to learn, to listen, and to continue to hone my professional and personal voice to be a better advocate for clients and for the people around me.
Is there a particular well-known case that you would have loved to have been counsel on, and why?
HR
Brown v. BoardBrown Board of education. As a black man, I know firsthand the importance of such a case and how it helped change the landscape of America. I grew up hearing about the case from my grandparents before learning about it in school. To witness the impact it has had on them when they do speak on it, makes me wonder, “What a joy it must have been to earn a favorable verdict during that time period?”
ANR
There are of course a litany of well-known and fascinating cases to choose from, but I’m going to try and limit myself to one more recent one that I think is fascinating: Castillo v. G&M Realty, L.PCastillo P; otherwise known as the “5Pointz” case. ; In short, the case was about whether a piece of “temporary art” like graffiti could achieve sufficient recognizability to be protected from unauthorized demolition or destruction. To start, I always grew up admiring all of the work at 5Pointz so, as a local, it would have been amazing to bring that perspective to the work and, more substantively, I think the question of whether or not works as a collective can be considered to be recognized is one that will continue to evolve given the rise in collective and digital art movements.
What practice areas are you currently interested learning more about?
ANR
I’m really interested in exploring the ways in which technology, art, business and innovation come together. As far as practice areas, I read that to be related to the work done with emerging companies and investors, trademark and copyright, and data privacy. At this point, I’m most excited to continue to learn and expand and see where these things take me!
HR
I am most interested in entertainment, litigation, and IP, so being accepted to this associateship feels like a great fit!
Was there any course that you took at law school that you were not looking forward to, but were surprised to find yourself interested in?
ANR
I took Federal Jurisdiction because I was told it was immensely helpful, not because it was something that sounded at first blush to be up my alley. I really was surprised at how interesting and informative the class was in part because it made me think more keenly about the ways in which nonsubstantive parts of cases often ultimately decide outcomes of substantively significant cases.
HR
Torts. Before law school I did not know what “torts” meant… (Sidebar for those not in the know: torts refers to a civil wrong that causes a claimant to suffer loss or harm, resulting in legal liability for the person who commits the tortious act). So because I did not know, I assumed it would be difficult. However, it soon became a class I really began to enjoy. Oddly enough, I sometimes come across “tortious situations” and even go over elements and causes of action (unwillingly) in my head. Who would have thought?
What are some of your interests outside of your school and your career?
ANR
I’m passionate about food, politics, literature, art, design, music, architecture, and lately trying to teach myself Italian and training for my first marathon.
HR
I love spending time with family and friends. I am also a musician so I love to listen and sing all genres of music.
Who is your favorite fictional legal personality, and why?
HR
Annalise Keating, from How to Get Away With Murder. Despite Annalise’s personal issues—and the high dramatics of network tv—she was a hell of an attorney. Her legal mind, her problem solving skills, her willingness to always bet on herself. The fictitious “legal” lawyering done by Annalise on How To Get Away With Murder is to be marveled.
ANR
Vinny Gambini, from My Cousin Vinny, is absolutely my favorite fictional legal , personality. The character balances a lot of the lawyer tropes that after a while, if not written successfully, become boring to watch. Most portrayals seem to suggest lawyers are soulless workaholics or incredibly unethical or purely heroic. Vinny is brash and unafraid, and ultimately a great advocate for his clients.
