Our deeds and shared values define our culture. As a firm, we are equally passionate about delivering legal excellence and making a difference in the world. MoFo+ shares news and thought leadership from our lawyers and their teams who are proud to contribute to the legal profession and the communities we call home.<h2>About Morrison Foerster</h2>Morrison Foerster is a leading global law firm that transforms complexity into advantage for its clients. Our clients include some of the largest financial institutions, banks, consulting and accounting firms, and Fortune 100, technology, and life sciences companies. Highlighting the firm’s commitment to client service, leadership in market-changing deals and impact litigation, and values-based culture, Morrison Foerster has been repeatedly recognized as one of the top 10 firms on The American Lawyer’s A-List. Year after year, the firm receives significant recognition from Chambers and The Legal 500 across their various guides, including Global, USA, Asia‑Pacific, Europe, UK, Latin America, and FinTech Legal. Our lawyers passionately care about delivering legal excellence while living our values. Morrison Foerster has a long-standing commitment to creating a culture that respects and celebrates differences, while providing an inclusive environment. The firm has achieved Mansfield Certification Plus since 2018 as a result of successfully reaching at least 30 percent women, communities of color, and LGBTQ+ lawyer representation in a notable number of current leadership roles and committees. The firm also has a long history of commitment to the community and society through providing pro bono legal services, including litigating for civil rights and civil liberties, improving public education and fostering the wellbeing of children, advocating for veterans, promoting international human rights, enforcing the right to asylum, and safeguarding the environment.

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Jennifer K. Brown is Senior Pro Bono Counsel at Morrison & Foerster LLP, with responsibility for the overall direction of the firm’s pro bono program. Ms. Brown also develops pro bono opportunities and promotes lawyers’ participation in the firm’s offices on the east coast of the U.S. as well as in China, Hong Kong, and Singapore.Before joining Morrison Foerster, Ms. Brown was vice president and legal director of Legal Momentum, the nation's first women’s rights legal organization, originally known as the NOW Legal Defense and Education Fund. There, she directed cutting-edge litigation and policy advocacy focused on employment discrimination, domestic violence victims' rights, and sexuality and family rights. Previously, she served as the reproductive rights director with the Civil Rights Bureau of the Office of the New York Attorney General and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney with the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York.Ms. Brown brings to the firm her deep knowledge of public interest legal organizations and the most pressing civil rights issues of the day. She has, as well, a rich array of litigation experience, having represented individuals as well as federal agencies and the public, from both the plaintiff and defense positions, in trial and appellate courts. As Senior Pro Bono Counsel, she applies this knowledge and experience to multiple goals: encouraging the firm's attorneys from all practice areas to bring pro bono projects to the firm; easing the way for attorneys to undertake meaningful pro bono service; and working with legal service and public interest organizations to identify creative ways to tap the passion and intellect of the firm's lawyers to pursue the public good. Recent achievements include collaborating with a legal services organization to represent individuals whose claims for unemployment insurance benefits are challenged, and forming a project to represent disabled individuals who are seeking federal disability benefits.Ms. Brown received her J.D. from Yale Law School in 1993, where she was essays editor of the Yale Law Journal (1992-1993) and was awarded the Benjamin Scharps and Israel H. Peres prizes for outstanding writing. Ms. Brown’s publications include, "The Nineteenth Amendment and Women's Equality," 102 Yale Law Journal 2175 (1993) (student note), and "Life and Death with Joan," in AIDS: The Women, Cleis Press, 1988.

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Senior Pro Bono Counsel

Staff

As senior pro bono counsel, Jennifer manages and promotes the pro bono participation of lawyers on the East Coast.

Jennifer K. Brown

Natalie Kernisant is Morrison Foerster’s Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer.Natalie provides strategic leadership to advance recruiting and retention of diverse talent at the firm, as well as providing client development support in the area of diversity and inclusion. She works closely with the firm’s Diversity Strategy Committee co-chairs Alexis Amezcua, Purvi Patel, and Mark Whitaker, and Women’s Strategy Committee co-chairs Carrie Cohen, Julie Park, and Stacey Sprenkel.Natalie joined Morrison Foerster in November 2013. She was appointed to the newly created role of Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer in December 2020, having previously served as the firm’s Global Director of Diversity and Inclusion.Prior to joining Morrison Foerster, Natalie served as Human Resources Manager for Risk Management within Global Banking and Markets at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Before that, she practiced trademark and copyright law and then served as the Special Projects Manager in the Office of Institutional Policy & Planning at Harvard Medical School overseeing the school’s 2011 accreditation process.In 2021, Natalie was named by Crain’s New York Business to its list of Notable Black Leaders & Executives 2021. The special section recognizes black men and women who have impacted New York City in major ways and sets out to honor their professional, civic, and philanthropic achievements. In 2023, Natalie was recognized as one of Savoy Magazine’s 2023 Most Influential Executives in Diversity & Inclusion. She was also selected to Law360’s Diversity & Inclusion Editorial Advisory Board, whose goal is to provide feedback on Law360’s coverage as well as expert insight on how to shape future coverage. Additionally, she was recognized in the Financial Times 2023 North America Innovative Lawyers report as one of seven individual “Change Makers” in the legal industry for her strategic leadership of the firm’s efforts to interrupt unconscious bias and advance diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In 2024, Natalie was named as a Change Driver in the Annual Diversity Awards of World IP Review (WIPR). The annual Diversity Awards recognize those who have made exceptional contributions to diversity and inclusion in the field of intellectual property.During Natalie’s tenure at MoFo, the firm has received multiple <a href="/culture/diversity#page-section-4" target="_self">diversity and inclusion awards and recognitions</a>.

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Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer

Natalie Kernisant is Morrison Foerster’s Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer.

Natalie Kernisant provides strategic leadership to advance recruiting and retention of diverse talent at Morrison Foerster, as well as providing client development support in the area of diversity and inclusion.

Natalie Kernisant

Dorothy L. Fernandez is Pro Bono Counsel based in the Denver office of Morrison & Foerster LLP. She is responsible for managing and promoting the participation of lawyers in the firm’s extensive pro bono program which includes, among other things, providing free legal services to low-income individuals, advising nonprofit organizations and assisting in other matters that serve the public interest. Dorothy’s primary focus is on working with lawyers in the firm’s Austin, Los Angeles, San Diego, Denver and Tokyo offices.In 1999, Dorothy joined Morrison & Foerster as an associate in the Securities Litigation, Enforcement and White-Collar Criminal Defense Group. She was elected a partner of the firm in 2004. Dorothy handled complex litigation at the state, federal and appellate levels and was responsible for drafting key dispositive motions in some of the firm’s largest securities litigation matters. In addition, she had an active pro bono practice and represented clients in individual matters, as well as cases addressing the treatment of children in foster care and the rights of LGBT individuals.A dedicated advocate for the LGBT community, Dorothy has served as co-chair of the board of directors of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, and she also served on the board of the Pride Law Fund, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to law students working on issues related to the equal rights of LGBT citizens and people living with HIV/AIDS.Dorothy currently serves on the board of directors of Centro Legal de la Raza, a nonprofit based in Oakland.Dorothy graduated from Stanford University in 1992 with a B.A. in psychology. She earned a J.D. in 1996 from Harvard Law School, where she was a member of the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review and co-chair of HLS Lambda. She has taught as an adjunct instructor at both Golden Gate University Law School and Santa Clara University Law School.

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Pro Bono Counsel

Dorothy works with lawyers in our Denver, Los Angeles, and San Diego offices on various pro bono initiatives.

Dorothy L. Fernandez

Rachel Williams is pro bono counsel based in Morrison & Foerster’s San Francisco office. She is responsible for managing and promoting the participation of lawyers in the firm’s extensive program of providing free legal services to low-income individuals, to nonprofit organizations, and in matters that serve the public interest. Rachel works primarily with lawyers in the firm’s San Francisco, Palo Alto, London, Berlin, and Brussels offices. She is an active member of the Disaster Legal Assistance Collaborative and the board of directors of OneJustice. Rachel joined the firm in 1999. Prior to becoming a pro bono counsel, Rachel was a litigation associate in the firm’s Palo Alto office and worked on attorney training and development initiatives. Before law school, Rachel worked for various nonprofit organizations, was an investigator for the public defender’s office in Seattle, and served as a Coro Public Affairs Fellow in New York City.

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Rachel is responsible for managing and promoting the participation of lawyers in the firm’s extensive program of providing free legal services to low-income individuals, to nonprofit organizations, and in matters that serve the public interest.

Rachel P. Williams

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Morrison Foerster has a long-standing commitment to diversity, inclusion, and pro bono work. MoFo+ shares news and thought leadership from our lawyers and their teams who are proud to contribute to the legal profession and the communities we call home.

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Welcome to the Mofo+ Blog

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Morrison Foerster has a long-standing commitment to diversity, inclusion, and pro bono work. MoFo+ shares news and thought leadership from our lawyers and their teams who are proud to contribute to the legal profession and the communities we call home.

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The MoFo+ blog shares news and insights from lawyers who are adding value to the legal profession and making a difference in the communities we call home.

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MoFo Wins Asylum for Cameroonian Political Refugee

MoFo Sponsors the 2024 NAPABA Convention

Navigating Justice and Disability: A Conversation with Judge David Tatel

The MoFo Foundation Supports Pro Bono Partners

MoFo Sponsors the Black Counsel Forum 2024

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just a core value but a driving force behind the success of our <a href="https://www.mofo.com/capabilities/latin-america" target="_blank">Latin America practice</a>. With a team of lawyers who are native or fluent speakers of Spanish and Portuguese, and who possess a deep understanding of local laws and cultures, we offer global advice with a local perspective. Having worked in all major markets in Latin America for decades, our lawyers are familiar with the business, economic, regulatory, and cultural environments of countries throughout the region. Our clients include closely held family businesses, public and private multinational corporations, governmental and quasi-governmental organizations, Fortune 100 financial institutions, and investment funds and private equity firms, each operating and investing across a broad range of sectors.Our <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people?regions=Latin%20America">Latin America team</a> is led by experienced partners who bring deep regional expertise. Key members include Randy Bullard, co-chair and managing partner in Miami, and Ruti Smithline, co-chair and Investigations + White Collar partner in New York. Together, they provide comprehensive legal services to a diverse clientele, guiding our clients through the complex, ever-changing landscapes of Latin America.In addition to our legal expertise, our Latin America team devotes a significant amount of time throughout the year to be present in the region, in order to foster and maintain close relationships with our clients, learn about their businesses and markets, and maintain strong connections to stay current with the pace of legal and regulatory change in each jurisdiction. Our team hosts and participates in industry-wide conferences and events, along with MoFo- and co-branded panels and sessions for a curated audience of clients and client targets in strategic markets.Our Latin America practice has received numerous accolades, including recognition in Chambers Global – Latin America-wide: Corporate/M&A, Global – Corporate Crime & Investigations, Latin America – Corporate/M&A, and Latin America – Corporate Crime & Investigations. We have also been recognized in the Latin Lawyer 250 for Banking & Finance and Corporate/M&A and Anti-Corruption Investigations and Compliance and as one of Latinvex’s Top 20 International Firms. Additionally, we were awarded Latin Lawyer’s Private M&A Deal of the Year (2020).At MoFo, we believe that our strength lies in our diversity. Our Latinx colleagues bring a unique blend of talents, perspectives, and experiences informed by a heritage that enriches our work and helps drive our success. To learn more about diversity and inclusion, please visit our <a href="https://www.mofo.com/culture/diversity" target="_blank">Diversity page</a>.<a href="https://www.mofo.com/sign-up" target="_blank">Sign up</a> for the latest legal and industry insights, news, and events from MoFo.

Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month: A Spotlight on MoFo’s Latin America Practice

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Managing Partner, Miami

Randy, managing partner of Morrison Foerster’s Miami office and co-chair of the firm’s Latin America Desk, advises multinational clients in connection with cross-border mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, securities and finance transactions throughout Central and South America, the Caribbean, Europe and the United States.

Randy Bullard

Randy, managing partner of Morrison Foerster’s Miami office and co-chair of the firm’s Latin America Desk, advises multinational clients in connection with cross-border mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, securities and finance transactions throughout Central and South America, the Caribbean, Europe and the United States.

Monitorship Team for a Large South American Company

Fortune 500 Company

A Multinational Agricultural Company

A Multinational Electronics Company

Audit Committee of International Company

Global Retailer

A Foreign Bank

A U.S. Holding Company for a Multinational Bank

A State-Owned Bank

Multi-Faceted Investigation of University Grants

Various Individuals in South America

Former Mortgage Executive

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Partner

Ruti Smithline, partner, has extensive experience in FCPA compliance, anti-corruption, and securities enforcement and white collar criminal defense issues.

Ruti Smithline

Ruti Smithline | White Collar Defense + FCPA

Ruti Smithline’s work has involved a wide range of white-collar defense activities, including global, cross- border internal investigations, civil and criminal work with the U.S. Department of Justice and attorney general’s offices, SEC enforcement actions, anti- money laundering, and OFAC regulatory matters. The cases she is most proud of are the nonpublic matters where the government did not bring any action against clients.What do you like best about your work? Each matter presents its own challenges, and I love collaborating with clients and colleagues to reach practical solutions. I like that understanding the law in isolation is generally not enough and that each case requires learning the client and the client’s industry. Also, being a native Spanish speaker has enabled me to do white-collar work in Latin America and opened many opportunities for cross-border matters.What do you enjoy doing in your free time? My husband and I have always enjoyed traveling and seeing new places. Since having our daughter, we really appreciate seeing the world through her eyes.What is your favorite thing about living in your current city? I live in Hoboken, New Jersey – which is right across the river from New York City. What I like the most is the sense of community. It has that small-town feel, while still being a city in its own right with all the amenities you would expect. I love that when I walk my daughter to school in the morning, we literally pass dozens of families going to a number of different schools, but we know them all from activities around the city.

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Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month: A Spotlight on MoFo’s Latin America Practice

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Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just a core value but a driving force behind the success of our Latin America practice. 

MoFo’s LGBTQ+ Affinity Network recently hosted a Town Hall in its San Francisco office, featuring a dynamic presentation led by <a href="https://www.drulevasseur.com/" target="_blank">M. Dru Levasseur, Esq.,</a> Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association.During his presentation, titled “Uncovering Bias in the Legal Profession,” Levasseur provided a comprehensive overview of the various forms of bias that exist within the legal field and offered practical solutions to address these issues. Levasseur drew from his extensive experience in diversity and inclusion work, as well as his personal journey as a trans lawyer, to deliver a powerful message about the importance of authenticity and intersectionality in the workplace.One of the key themes of Levasseur’s presentation was intersectionality, which involves understanding and supporting the full person, including their various identities and experiences. He shared insights from the Williams Institute and Law360, illustrating how diversity provides an edge in navigating complex legal situations and connecting with a broad swath of clients and colleagues. Levasseur stressed that firms must move beyond tokenism and create environments where all employees can thrive and be appreciated for their unique contributions. He emphasized that diversity is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage, as it enables firms to better understand and serve their clients.Levasseur also addressed the pervasive issue of microaggressions and implicit bias in the legal profession that can manifest in the workplace, such as misgendering colleagues or making assumptions about someone’s personal life based on their appearance. By addressing these behaviors head-on, Levasseur argued, firms can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.Following the keynote presentation, attendees participated in a breakout session focused on supporting Shae, a Bi+ attorney of color who has faced numerous challenges due to their gender identity. The session provided a platform for discussing both individual and structural strategies to support Shae and other LGBTQ+ colleagues.Participants discussed the importance of providing mentorship and sponsorship opportunities tailored to attorneys, which are key priorities at MoFo. Creating safe spaces where everyone can express themselves without fear of judgment or retaliation is a crucial step in fostering a supportive work environment.In addition, attendees explored the implementation of bias interrupters that produce measurable change and address systemic issues. By addressing these structural issues, firms can create an environment where all employees, regardless of their background or identity, can thrive and succeed.For more information about MoFo’s diversity initiatives, please visit our <a href="https://www.mofo.com/culture/diversity" target="_blank">website</a>.We invite you to learn more about how MoFo’s lawyers are committed to championing diversity and inclusion: <a href="https://www.mofo.com/resources/news/240314-40-best-lgbtq-lawyers-under-40" target="_blank">Two Morrison Foerster Lawyers Named Among the 40 Best LGBTQ+ Lawyers Under 40 by the LGBTQ+ Bar Association</a>.<div data-reactroot=""><img class="rich-text-embed-image" alt="Group photo" src="https://media2.mofo.com/v3/images/blt5775cc69c999c255/blta9a70c85531c8384/66d255e5be3e564fe463119a/240830-together-inclusion.jpg?format=auto&amp;quality=60"/></div><div data-reactroot=""><img class="rich-text-embed-image" alt="Smiling photo" src="https://media2.mofo.com/v3/images/blt5775cc69c999c255/blt9db9c2f42ba18dd3/66d255f4b91c0f5b53f4694f/240830-together-diversity.jpg?format=auto&amp;quality=60"/></div>

National LGBTQ+ Bar Association Director, M. Dru Levasseur, Esq., joins MoFo for a collaborative discussion about uncovering bias in the workplace

Editor's note: Read about Hannah McCollough, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our Boston office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.Before starting at MoFo this summer, I wasn’t sure what I saw for my future as an attorney. As a first generation law student who went straight from undergrad to law school, I was intimidated to be starting at a global law firm the summer following my 1L year. I was drawn to MoFo by my desire to solve complex legal issues for a wide variety of clients and industries; however, I wasn’t sure how I was going to contribute to a large law firm with limited legal experience under my belt. And like many law students, I felt mystified by what a career in “Big Law” really entailed. As it turned out, these apprehensions were unfounded. During my first week at MoFo, I was immediately exposed to real, substantive work. On my first day, I was sending emails to partners across different MoFo offices; by the end of my first week, I had attended a client due diligence meeting and worked on matters across three practice groups: M&A, Tax, and Tech Transactions. By my midpoint, I had conducted legal research for revising corporate bylaws, drafted ancillary documents for a loan agreement, and corresponded with a client on a pro bono matter.The breadth and depth of my assignments reflected not only MoFo’s capabilities as a firm, but the trust placed in its summer associates. We were continuously encouraged to take initiative on matters that interested us and were afforded discretion on both the projects and attorneys we worked with. MoFo attorneys cultivated a dynamic where we could ask questions and make mistakes; yet, seeing our work product get sent directly to clients instilled a sense of importance that emphasized our genuine role at the firm. This balance of oversight and responsibility fostered an ideal environment for prioritizing our development and growth.At this point in our career trajectory, law students often have more questions than they do answers. The pathway to the legal profession can be a hazy one, especially when tasked with navigating the complexity of legal practice alongside the unfamiliarity of a corporate setting. I am grateful that my experience as a MoFo summer associate has remedied these concerns, equipping me with the mentorship, training, and skills to succeed as an aspiring attorney. Now, nearing the end of the Summer Associate Program, I feel lucky to say that my previous sense of imposter syndrome has grown into a strong sense of confidence, and I am excited to be entering my 2L year with a newfound sense of clarity toward my career.

MoFo’s Summer Associate Program Equipped Me with the Skills to Succeed as an Aspiring Attorney – Hannah McCollough

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MoFo’s Summer Associate Program Equipped Me with the Skills to Succeed as an Aspiring Attorney – Hannah McCollough

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Before starting at MoFo this summer, I wasn’t sure what I saw for my future as an attorney.

Editor's note: Read about Alejandro Castro, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our Austin office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.As a first-generation college and law student who had never been exposed to the legal field growing up, I found it difficult to differentiate among law firms. They all seemed to be doing similar work, and they were all named after past partners. Even after attending a deluge of receptions, I found it difficult to identify what set firms apart. That was only until I met MoFo attorneys.At a Texas Meet the Firms event, I met Shannon Sibold, a partner from MoFo’s Austin office. She told me how she has spent the entirety of her legal career at MoFo, and how she had received invaluable mentorship from other MoFo lawyers. I was struck by how easy and seamless our conversation felt. My interest in MoFo was sparked after that event.At another Meet the Firms event, I had the pleasure of meeting Aaron Fountain, also a partner from the Austin office. Similarly, our conversation felt natural and relaxed. Coming away from those experiences, I knew that I wanted to work with and learn from Shannon and Aaron. Both were experts in their fields and doing legal work at the highest level. Furthermore, they were genuinely committed to mentoring and investing in associates.When I was considering where I wanted to be for my 1L summer, the decision was not difficult. I chose MoFo because of the people.

Personal Connections in Professional Spaces: Why I Chose MoFo – Alejandro Castro

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Personal Connections in Professional Spaces: Why I Chose MoFo – Alejandro Castro

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As a first-generation college and law student who had never been exposed to the legal field growing up, I found it difficult to differentiate among law firms. T

Editor's note: Read about Soraya Morales Nuñez, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our Los Angeles office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.As a 1L Keith Wetmore Fellow in MoFo’s Los Angeles office, I was excited to delve into the firm’s various practice areas and its pro bono program. Before attending law school, I worked at a general practice law firm in Boston and a children’s rights public interest organization in the Bay Area. In both settings, I supported different attorneys on immigration, direct representation, and impact litigation matters. As I contemplated where to spend my 1L summer, I knew I wanted to join a firm with a deep commitment to pro bono advocacy and community involvement. MoFo’s pro bono program stood out to me, and my work with partners, associates, and community organizations this summer gave me helpful insight into the firm’s dedication to giving back to different communities.This summer, I had the privilege of working on two case teams representing clients seeking immigration relief in the United States. Alongside Los Angeles associate C.B. Rome, I contributed to an asylum case with the firm’s longtime pro bono partner, Oasis Legal Services. Oasis provides legal and social services to LGBTQ+ immigrants in the San Francisco Bay Area. As a former Bay Area resident, I was excited to collaborate with Oasis and help continue serving a community that is important to me. Under C.B.’s supervision, I interviewed the client and drafted his declaration in support of his affirmative asylum petition. One of the most important lessons I learned in my professional experiences before law school is that developing rapport and earning a client’s trust are the building blocks of compassionate and effective advocacy. This lesson guided my conversations with Oasis’ client as we discussed sensitive topics to prepare his declaration. Moreover, C.B.’s thorough feedback after each client meeting and declaration draft allowed me to hone my interviewing and persuasive writing skills, skills that will continue to serve me well in my legal career.With the support of our partnering organization, Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice (LACLJ), I also collaborated with partner Whitney O’Byrne, associate Natalie Fox, and my fellow summer associate Lydia Zicker to prepare Adjustment of Status petitions for a family. The LACLJ attorneys provided the MoFo teams with robust training and resources, a testament to the organization’s commitment to its clients and its relationship with the firm. Whitney allowed me to take the lead on our case, an empowering experience that demonstrated the trust and respect attorneys at the firm have for summer associates.In addition to the pro bono matters I helped support this summer, I sought out opportunities at the firm to gain exposure to different skills used in civil litigation practice. In June, I joined portions of a two-day deposition skills bootcamp held for mid-level associates in the Los Angeles office. Attending the lecture sessions and listening to current MoFo associates share deposition strategies allowed me to gain further insight into the role and importance of depositions in the discovery phase of litigation.MoFo’s robust pro bono practice and associate training programs are a testament to the firm’s commitment to community involvement and the professional development of its attorneys at all stages of their careers. I am excited to take the experiences and skills from this summer into my next year of law school as I continue training to become the best advocate I can be.

Enhancing Legal Skills Through Pro Bono Advocacy – Soraya Morales Nuñez

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Enhancing Legal Skills Through Pro Bono Advocacy – Soraya Morales Nuñez

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As a 1L Keith Wetmore Fellow in MoFo’s Los Angeles office, I was excited to delve into the firm’s various practice areas and its pro bono program.

Editor's note: Read about Tessa DeFranco, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our New York office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.When I was choosing where to begin my legal career, nearly everyone I spoke with gave me the same advice: “You will work hard wherever you go, so make sure to choose a firm where you will enjoy working with the people during stressful times and late nights.” With MoFo, I had no doubt; these were the people I wanted to join in the trenches.Every MoFo attorney I spoke to throughout the recruiting process was authentic and generous with their time and perspectives. As a summer associate, I have had the opportunity to interact with so many amazing members of the MoFo community. On my first day, my associate and partner mentors, Alexandra Avvocato and Ruti Smithline, shared advice and told stories about their own formative experiences. They asked me what I hoped to get out of the Summer Associate Program and offered support in helping me achieve my goals.At MoFo, mentorship extends far beyond scheduled events typical at most firms. This summer has been full of countless opportunities to connect with and learn from attorneys across practice groups. Before I even turned in my first assignment, the assigning attorney, Heather Han, asked if she could take me out for a snack. Over ice cream, Heather not only answered my questions but also offered guidance based on her own experiences at MoFo. I have continued to work with Heather throughout the summer and she has gone out of her way to provide constructive feedback, constantly offering her time and support to help me improve my skills. On one pro bono matter, for example, Heather went through several rounds of review with me to hone the project’s clarity and analysis before it went to the partner.As a young associate, I find it is invaluable to work with lawyers who are patient and trustworthy. Surrounding myself with talented and supportive people transcends professional advancement; it represents a commitment to staying true to my personal values and drive to achieve a fulfilling work life. So many people at the firm have impacted my summer experience in a positive way. From Mike DeStefano’s helping me structure my research plan, to Laura Miller’s advising me on classes to take during my final year at Columbia, to Ken Sexauer’s constant presence as an advisor, the framework of mentorship at MoFo has permeated every one of my days at the firm. Even Jamie Levitt, the managing partner of MoFo’s New York office, and Cathy Lu, a senior attorney recruiting specialist, have taken much time out of their schedules to help guide me in ways to further my burgeoning career and build my confidence. And this is true not just for me; I have seen them show all of the summer associates that MoFo is a great place to grow and learn.It has been extremely rewarding to be a part of a firm that shares my values, invests so much in its attorneys, and emphasizes mutual trust and integrity. I am proud to be a part of the MoFo community, and I hope that one day I can mentor younger attorneys to the same extent everyone has done for my fellow summer associates and me.

A Firm Is Measured by Its People – Tessa DeFranco

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A Firm Is Measured by Its People – Tessa DeFranco

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When I was choosing where to begin my legal career, nearly everyone I spoke with gave me the same advice: “You will work hard wherever you go, so make sure to choose a firm where you will enjoy working with the people during stressful times and late nights.” 

Editor's note: Read about Johnathan Shawel, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our Palo Alto office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.For me, the decision to follow my career path to MoFo was clear. Before embarking on my legal journey, I spent 10 years navigating various corporate environments, from healthcare to tech. Each setting presented its own unique culture, with both opportunities and challenges. Over time, I realized that to thrive, I needed a place where I could grow, explore, make mistakes, and learn—all while receiving genuine guidance and mentorship. I was searching for an environment that was as invested in my success as I was.As I started my first summer at MoFo, a few things immediately stood out to me: mentorship, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and a supportive environment where people could be their genuine selves.Mentorship can often feel disingenuous or forced in many corporate settings. But at MoFo, the value of mentorship is woven into the fabric of the firm. It extends beyond formal relationships. Informal mentorships flourish, with colleagues at all levels eager to offer advice, share their experiences, and support each other’s development. Everyone, from partners to junior associates and business professionals, is willing to share their knowledge and insights.The mentors I encountered at MoFo shared genuine confidence in my abilities and were always willing to guide me through challenging tasks. This encouragement was invaluable in building my confidence and enhancing my skills. In my two summers at MoFo, I benefited from substantial support from partners like Tim Harris and Mike Krigbaum who ensured I was frequently receiving substantive feedback and constantly gaining exposure to new areas of law.Coming from a non-traditional background, it was also great to connect and learn from attorneys like Lee Shepard, who, like myself, took a different career path to the law. His insights and experiences resonated with me and reinforced the idea that diverse paths can lead to success in the legal field. I also found a great mentor in Damien Holmes who always took extra time out of his busy day to explain complex concepts, provide background on the work I was doing, and emphasize its importance.In addition to mentorship, at MoFo, diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords—they are core values that the firm actively champions. The Wetmore Fellowship, for example, provided opportunities to network and build meaningful connections with summer associates, associates, and partners who are committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. Moreover, the setting at MoFo is one that encourages everyone to be their authentic selves from day one. In the first week, we were tasked with creating a one-page slide introducing ourselves allowing us to share our backgrounds, interests, and personal stories. This exercise highlighted the firm’s genuine interest in who we are as individuals, not just as professionals. From axe throwing to sushi making, the many summer program events also fostered a strong sense of community which showcased that MoFo is not just a place to work but a community where one can truly belong.I am proud to be a part of the MoFo community and look forward to continuing my journey with the firm.

A Journey of Mentorship and Growth at MoFo – Johnathan Shawel

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A Journey of Mentorship and Growth at MoFo – Johnathan Shawel

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For me, the decision to follow my career path to MoFo was clear. Before embarking on my legal journey, I spent 10 years navigating various corporate environments, from healthcare to tech.

Editor's note: Read about Delaney Ho, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our San Diego office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.Big Law or public interest? I wanted both. As a woman of color from a working-class family, I’m committed to uplifting the communities that have brought me to where I am today. During my job search, I looked for a firm that shared this commitment. MoFo immediately stood out to me for its work in reproductive rights after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. MoFo is an anchor law firm in the Abortion Defense Network and in litigation to enforce medically necessary exceptions in state abortion bans. A lot of law firms talk about pro bono, but seeing a firm that demonstrated its commitment through tangible actions was refreshing.During my summer at MoFo, I’ve seen firsthand the firm’s dedication to serving the community. I was able to participate on a pro bono matter where MoFo serves as co-counsel alongside several nonprofit organizations who are working to improve the conditions at the open-air detention sites along the border. A group of us—including a partner, an associate, and three summer associates—spent a weekend at these sites, delivering humanitarian assistance and gathering migrants’ testimonies. Members of our group also provided crucial translation support. Concurrently, legal secretaries and other associates worked tirelessly behind the scenes, preparing documents late into the night and remaining on standby to address any urgent needs we encountered in the field. It was motivating to witness a partner and multiple associates prioritize this pro bono case amidst their demanding schedules.In another pro bono assignment, I worked with my associate mentor on a case where MoFo is defending a client against a federal lawsuit. The individual bringing the suit against our client seeks to evade a child custody order by alleging constitutional violations. For the case, I researched questions of standing and compulsory joinder to support our efforts to have the lawsuit dismissed.The firm’s commitment to fostering pro bono engagement, including at the summer associate level, is commendable. One of the firm’s pro bono counsel proactively contacted us earlier in the summer, introducing herself and presenting an opportunity to participate in a pro bono immigration clinic. She visited our office in person to discuss our pro bono interests and address any questions we had.My experience has reaffirmed my decision to join MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program. I’m proud to be at a firm that supports its attorneys pursuing pro bono work and utilizes its resources to create a positive societal impact. I look forward to centering pro bono in my practice as an attorney.

Advocacy in Action: A Summer of Pro Bono Excellence at MoFo – Delaney Ho

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Advocacy in Action: A Summer of Pro Bono Excellence at MoFo – Delaney Ho

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Big Law or public interest? I wanted both. As a woman of color from a working-class family, I’m committed to uplifting the communities that have brought me to where I am today.

Editor's note: Read about Jenna Kwak & Tara Coughlin, who participated in <a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-2024-summer-associate-program-provides-immersive-training-and-personalized-mentorship" target="_self">MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program</a> in our San Francisco office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.This summer, we had the opportunity to work on a meaningful pro bono case alongside Avokids and Adam Brausa. Our task was to help prepare for an evidentiary hearing regarding San Francisco Human Services’ request to remove two children from their maternal aunt’s care and place them elsewhere. We represented the maternal aunt, who was fighting to preserve placement in her home and to be designated as a de facto parent.Notably, the agency had not only recommended the aunt’s care previously but had often praised the aunt’s caregiving—until abruptly changing its stance.The stakes for the hearing were very high for the aunt and the children: if the agency’s request for removal had been approved, this would have been the children’s fourth uprooting in just two years; this family’s stability and unity hung in the balance of this hearing. After an intense seven-hour hearing featuring testimony from eight witnesses, the aunt prevailed and the judge ordered that the placement be preserved.When we first expressed interest in assisting with this hearing, we were uncertain how we could contribute to the case, especially because this was our first time working with Adam. Not to mention, we understood that this was a complicated and sensitive case, with removal of children from their caretaker’s home being one of the most drastic examples of how the family regulation system can harm families.However, Adam’s response was welcoming and supportive. He immediately invited us to join the case team, breaking down barriers that might typically exist. He dedicated hours on the phone with us and explained to us the intricacies of the case and answered numerous questions. He entrusted us with substantive legal research, while breaking down complicated legal concepts into digestible pieces, ensuring that we could fully grasp and contribute to the case. This is not to say that our involvement was purely academic; we also helped serve three same-day subpoenas to witnesses who could testify to our client’s caregiving. Adam’s approach of integrating us into the case team not only facilitated our meaningful participation, but also showcased his dedication to the case and to mentoring summer associates.We also received valuable mentorship and support elsewhere at the firm. The paralegal teams, both in our home office in San Francisco and the New York office, were invaluable in ensuring service of these subpoenas. Camille Framroze connected us to these paralegal teams within five minutes of us asking. Mamie Tabet showed us which case documents to prioritize reviewing. Umeet Sajjan shared exemplars of work products and offered to review anything we wrote.We feel incredibly fortunate to have received all this support and mentorship and to have contributed to such a positive outcome for our client. This experience has demonstrated to us that impactful pro bono legal representation and advocacy undoubtedly thrive at MoFo.

Navigating Legal Challenges and Embracing Mentorship: A Pro Bono Success Story – Jenna Kwak & Tara Coughlin

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Navigating Legal Challenges and Embracing Mentorship: A Pro Bono Success Story – Jenna Kwak & Tara Coughlin

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This summer, we had the opportunity to work on a meaningful pro bono case alongside Avokids and Adam Brausa.