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

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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 talent with a wide range of experiences and perspectives 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 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

Partner

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 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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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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MoFo Celebrates Earth Day

Celebrating Black History Month with Maya Wiley, President and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

Faces of MoFo: Dominick Divine III

MoFo's Women of Color Collective: A Conversation with CCWC’s Laurie Robinson Haden

MoFo Wins Asylum for Cameroonian Political Refugee

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.

Editor's note: Read about Johann Choo, 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 Washington, D.C. office, in this installment of our MoFo Stories series.Having worked for multiple years in a law-adjacent field before attending law school, I knew not all things from the classroom translated to practice. Therefore, during my time in school, I had a constant desire to experience things firsthand and see how they played out in reality. At MoFo, I was able to do exactly that.During my first summer at MoFo, I was given opportunities from the beginning. Associates and partners alike were happy to bring me in and give me the exposure and experience I had craved leading up to the summer. I drafted internal memos for ongoing matters, claim charts for patent contentions, and presentations for business development. While the flood of opportunities (and responsibilities) was initially daunting, a support network of associates, fostered through MoFo’s intentionally collegial environment, provided the confidence and tools to succeed. Associates Nate Tan, Reebhel El-Hage, and Jenna Spoont were especially kind and generous with their time. If I had questions on how to approach a problem, what next steps should look like, or how something could be improved, they were always willing to take the time to dive into it with me.Coming back for a second summer, I was excited to continue where I left off. MoFo did not disappoint. In addition to reinforcing relationships from the past summer, I was fortunate to be paired with Charles Provine as my work coordinator, who was an ever-available source of knowledge and encouragement—pushing me to continue taking on a variety of opportunities and to widen my horizons. Knowing this was my second year, the attorneys were mindful of my desire for new experiences, and intentionally pulled me onto matters distinct from those I had worked on previously. Among other things, I was able to draft articles, sit in on depositions, and contribute to motions, gaining more of the hands-on experience I wanted. As this second summer ends, I can look back and say MoFo has exceeded my expectations. Every step of the way, opportunities have been presented and support has been provided to see me succeed. While my legal career is only beginning, I am confident that MoFo has and will both encourage and enable me to be the best attorney I can be.

Providing Opportunity to Grow and Support to Succeed – Johann Choo

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Providing Opportunity to Grow and Support to Succeed – Johann Choo

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Having worked for multiple years in a law-adjacent field before attending law school, I knew not all things from the classroom translated to practice.

MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program has just wrapped up after providing an immersive experience into the firm’s dynamic operations across our U.S. and Tokyo offices. This program is not just about work; it’s a comprehensive journey that includes extensive training sessions, hands-on mentorship from seasoned attorneys, and a mix of challenging assignments. What’s more, our summer associates receive constructive feedback to foster growth and enjoy numerous social and networking events that build professional and personal connections.Our tailored learning and development programs are specifically designed to help summer associates get up to speed with MoFo’s operational framework and cutting-edge legal practices. Highlights of the training include engaging practice area spotlights led by MoFo practice group chairs, insightful pathways to partnership panels, a dedicated series on mental health and wellness, and essential bar preparation sessions. In addition, summer associates participated in a writing workshop, acquired skills to build effective relationships across differences, and learned trial basics and the lifecycle of a deal through a two-day, firmwide virtual summit. These opportunities ensure that every summer associate is well prepared and informed about the intricacies of legal practice at MoFo.Under the guidance of MoFo’s lawyers, summer associates dive deep into a variety of intriguing projects. Whether it’s litigation or transactional work, our associates refine crucial skills such as legal writing, research, and analysis. Each summer associate benefits from a personalized mentorship arrangement including a designated mentor and a work coordinator who facilitate meaningful connections across the firm and provide a clearer perspective on future legal career paths.The program also boasts a vibrant social calendar designed to foster camaraderie and community. From partner-hosted dinners and exciting sporting events to creative cooking competitions and community service projects, our summer associates enjoy a well-rounded experience.Several summer associates were invited to write about their personal program experiences and topics such as mentorship, pro bono, learning and development, and diversity and inclusion. Read their MoFo Stories here:<ul class="li-text-orange"><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/personal-connections-in-professional-spaces-why-i-chose-mofo-alejandro-castro" target="_self">“Personal Connections in Professional Spaces: Why I Chose MoFo” – Alejandro Castro, Austin</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/providing-opportunity-to-grow-and-support-to-succeed-johann-choo" target="_self">“Providing Opportunity to Grow and Support to Succeed” – Johann Choo, Washington, D.C.</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/a-firm-is-measured-by-its-people-tessa-defranco" target="_self">“A Firm Is Measured by Its People” – Tessa DeFranco, New York</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/advocacy-in-action-a-summer-of-pro-bono-excellence-at-mofo-delaney-ho" target="_self">“Advocacy in Action: A Summer of Pro Bono Excellence at MoFo” – Delaney Ho, San Diego</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/navigating-legal-challenges-and-embracing-mentorship-a-pro-bono-success-story-jenna-kwak-tara-coughlin" target="_self">“Navigating Legal Challenges and Embracing Mentorship: A Pro Bono Success Story” – Jenna Kwak & Tara Coughlin, San Francisco</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/mofo-s-summer-associate-program-equipped-me-with-the-skills-to-succeed-as-an-aspiring-attorney-hannah-mccollough" target="_self">“MoFo’s Summer Associate Program Equipped Me with the Skills to Succeed as an Aspiring Attorney” – Hannah McCollough, Boston</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/enhancing-legal-skills-through-pro-bono-advocacy-soraya-morales-nu-ez" target="_self">“Enhancing Legal Skills Through Pro Bono Advocacy” – Soraya Morales Nuñez, Los Angeles</a></li><li class="li-text-orange"><a href="https://together.mofo.com/topics/a-journey-of-mentorship-and-growth-at-mofo-johnathan-shawel" target="_self">“A Journey of Mentorship and Growth at MoFo” – Johnathan Shawel, Palo Alto</a></li></ul>If you’re eager to kickstart your legal career and thrive in a collaborative environment, MoFo’s Summer Associate Program awaits your application. Visit <a href="https://www.mofo.com/careers-mofo-to-go">MoFo To-Go</a> to explore our digital resources, including our interactive Summer Associate Program brochure, virtual job simulations, and our YouTube channel with a wide range of topic-based playlists.<iframe src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/abZoeHsdTgY?rel=0" title="iframe"></iframe>

MoFo's 2024 Summer Associate Program Provides Immersive Training and Personalized Mentorship

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MoFo's 2024 Summer Associate Program Provides Immersive Training and Personalized Mentorship

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MoFo’s 2024 Summer Associate Program has just wrapped up after providing an immersive experience into the firm’s dynamic operations across our U.S. and Tokyo offices.

MoFo is committed to supporting those in need through our pro bono efforts. On July 2, 2024, our Washington, D.C. office demonstrated this commitment by assisting 18 Ukrainian refugees in their quest to stay in the United States as the war in their home country continues. Nineteen of our lawyers and summer associates volunteered their time to complete humanitarian re-parole applications, which are necessary to maintain the refugees’ lawful presence in the United States.Our clients, who fled their homeland in the wake of the Russian invasion in early 2022, were initially granted humanitarian parole to live and work in the United States for two years. As the war in Ukraine continues, the federal government authorized “re-parole” applications earlier this year, allowing successful applicants to extend their stay and continue their employment in the United States.Through a Zoom-facilitated legal clinic, our team worked in pairs, meeting virtually with clients and their caseworkers, who also served as interpreters. They completed an application for re-parole for each client, as well as applications for a waiver of the $630 per person filing fee. Each team saw a client in the morning and another in the afternoon, and D.C partner and Pro Bono Committee member Chris Gloria hosted a lunch for participants between the morning and afternoon sessions. This clinic was facilitated by New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, in collaboration with Church World Service. Their support and coordination were invaluable in rendering this crucial service to individuals stranded in the United States by circumstances far beyond their control.<a href="https://www.mofo.com/culture/pro-bono" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about MoFo’s pro bono efforts.

MoFo Provides Legal Support to Ukrainian Refugees in the United States

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Christopher Gloria is a partner in the firm’s Patent Group. Mr. Gloria’s practice concentrates on domestic and international patent prosecution, IP due diligence, and IP litigation support including patent infringement and validity determinations.

Christopher Gloria

MoFo Provides Legal Support to Ukrainian Refugees in the United States

MoFo is committed to supporting those in need through our pro bono efforts.

Morrison Foerster lawyers successfully helped a pro bono client secure refugee status in Japan. This outcome was the result of a partnership with SoftBank, which suggested in 2021 that the firm join its in-house lawyers in representing a client of the Japan Association for Refugees (JAR), a non‑governmental organization that MoFo’s Tokyo office has worked with for more than 15 years. Tokyo partner Takahiro Nonaka led a team of MoFo and SoftBank lawyers in representing PN (whose name has been changed to protect his identity). PN fled from the Democratic Republic of the Congo after facing persecution by the Congolese government because of his human rights activism and to escape oppression based on his membership in the Tutsi ethnic minority. The Osaka Regional Immigration Services Bureau originally denied PN refugee status in 2019. The team appealed that decision, and a hearing was held in April 2022. Following the hearing, the team also contested the interview summaries prepared by the Osaka Immigration Bureau and added a follow-up submission reiterating the client’s claims in July 2022. Seventeen months later, the Osaka Immigration Bureau finally overturned its 2019 decision, and PN received official approval of his refugee status at the Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau on December 19, 2023. This result is a rare victory, as Japan grants refugee status to only a tiny portion of applicants. According to Taka, who was present at the Tokyo Immigration Bureau when PN received his certificate, “He was so overcome with emotion that he could not say a single word, thinking of the long fight that he continued for more than four years.”In addition to Taka, MoFo team members included Tokyo associates Kana Kobayashi, Masumi Oyabu, and Rei Suzuki. The team will continue to work with PN to secure his long-term residence status. <a href="https://www.mofo.com/culture/pro-bono" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about MoFo’s pro bono efforts.

SoftBank Partnership Brings Rare Victory for Refugee in Japan

Major U.S. pharmaceutical companies

Several leading Japanese auto parts companies

Major Japanese pharmaceutical companies

Japanese subsidiaries of major U.S. manufacturing companies

A U.S. manufacturing company

Various major Japanese manufacturing companies

Major Japanese manufacturing companies

Major Japanese manufacturing companies and major Japanese pharmaceutical companies

Major Japanese manufacturing companies, Japanese subsidiaries of major U.S. manufacturing companies, a major European pharmaceutical company, and a major European infrastructure company

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Takahiro Nonaka is a partner of Morrison & Foerster Law Offices. He focuses his practice on government and internal investigations, including anti-corruption, antitrust, various employees’ misconduct,

Takahiro Nonaka

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Associate

Kana Kobayashi is an associate of Morrison Foerster Law Offices.

Kana Kobayashi

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Masumi Oyabu is an associate of Morrison & Foerster Law Offices.

Masumi Oyabu

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Rei Suzuki is an associate of Morrison & Foerster Law Offices.
Rei received her LL.B. from Keio University in 2011, and her J.D. from Keio University Law School in 2014. She completed her training at 

Rei Suzuki

SoftBank Partnership Brings Rare Victory for Refugee in Japan

Morrison Foerster lawyers successfully helped a pro bono client secure refugee status in Japan. 

Morrison Foerster recently hosted its 2024 Diversity and Inclusion (D+I) Fellowship Retreat, a multi-day event designed to support the successful integration and professional development of summer associates in the firm’s diversity-related fellowship programs.The retreat’s programming included a teambuilding cooking class and substantive sessions featuring MoFo attorneys and business professionals, and an outside consultant. One of the highlights of the retreat was the “Ask Me Anything” panel with Wetmore and SEO Law Fellowship alumni Jamis Barcott, <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people/malika-moore">Malika Moore</a>, and <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people/nishi-tavernier">Nishi Tavernier</a>. The panelists shared valuable insights on how to effectively navigate law firm life including managing work assignments, succeeding with clients, and developing strategies for success during their pre-law, 1L, and 2L summers.In addition, we hosted a session on <a href="https://www.discprofile.com/what-is-disc">DiSC</a>, a personal behavioral assessment tool that helps people understand and improve their working styles. Following this session, Tasneem K. Khokha from GrowthPlay provided a comprehensive framework on how to approach collaboration in the workplace. Her session covered essential skills such as soliciting and utilizing feedback, communicating clearly, and managing expectations, all of which are crucial for building relationships across lines of difference and developing a successful legal career.We concluded the day with a discussion among our Diversity Strategy Committee leaders, <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people/alexis-amezcua">Alexis A. Amezcua</a>, <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people/purvi-patel">Purvi G. Patel</a>, and <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people/mark-whitaker">Mark L. Whitaker</a>. Moderated by Morrison Foerster general counsel <a href="https://www.mofo.com/people/philip-besirof">Philip T. Besirof</a>, this session allowed the fellows to learn more about their respective backgrounds, practice leadership responsibilities, mentorship, and the culture here at Morrison Foerster.The D+I Fellowship Retreat is just one of the many ways Morrison Foerster invests in the next generation of legal professionals, ensuring they are well equipped to contribute to and thrive in the legal industry.Thank you to all participants who made the 2024 Fellowship Retreat a memorable and impactful event.

Morrison Foerster Hosts 2024 Diversity and Inclusion Fellowship Retreat

Morrison Foerster Hosts 2024 Diversity and Inclusion Fellowship Retreat

Morrison Foerster recently hosted its 2024 Diversity and Inclusion (D+I) Fellowship Retreat, a multi-day event designed to support the successful integration and professional development of summer associates in the firm’s diversity-related fellowship programs.

Editors’ Note: Read about Patrick Keeler, a New York associate in the firm’s Transactions Department, in the latest installment of our ongoing Faces of MoFo series.﻿From my earliest memories, I had a desire to explore, understand, and connect with the world around me. My upbringing in a seaside town in Nova Scotia first sparked this curiosity, which has been invaluable in my life and career, ultimately leading me to my current role as a finance associate at MoFo.I was particularly curious about people when I was growing up. This drew me to acting, which is all about getting to understand a character and figuring out how to communicate their story in a compelling way. As a young adult, I trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, an acting conservatory in England, and then worked as an actor throughout both the UK and Canada for several years. I came to develop a particular affinity for stage combat and voice work. In the video game and voiceover industries, the whole process of understanding a character often needs to be completed within minutes in the studio. This challenge of efficiently delivering top-quality work to a client—from inquiry through to completion—is one I’ve always thoroughly enjoyed.My work in the HIV field grew as a natural extension of the same curiosity in people. One of the first professional experiences I had was supporting underserved individuals living with HIV in Montreal. Through this work, I got to know many people who faced immense barriers to meeting their basic healthcare needs. Over time, intrigued by the complexities of their experiences, I began to notice chronic gaps in support systems, particularly for migrants living with HIV who lacked access to healthcare. Against this backdrop of inquiry, I saw an opportunity to create a solution, and “Le Cercle Orange” was born. This award-winning project has brought cost-free HIV care to hundreds of individuals living with HIV by harmonizing resources in a vast, streamlined, and accessible network. I have since supported integrating the same strategy in South America and Europe, and the project is continuing to expand.While managing Le Cercle Orange, I began to inquire what makes a solution to a problem a good solution. This introduced me to the research field—first to implementation science (a domain aimed at integrating evidence-based health interventions into practice), then to legal research—and, ultimately, to the practice of law.As a finance attorney at MoFo, I am motivated by the same ethos of curiosity. I’m drawn to finance law because, in many ways, understanding debt and finance is akin to understanding how much of the world operates. Every financial transaction is a narrative shaped by both the currents of the market and the needs of a client, and understanding how to best meet these needs is key. This also fuels my pro bono practice at MoFo: I am currently developing a pro bono project that builds on my work with Le Cercle Orange, creating a network of support in tandem with a consortium of organizations in Latin America to empower vulnerable populations in navigating the complexities of HIV care across the U.S.For me, curiosity isn’t just a trait, but a motivator. And while my trajectory has perhaps been a bit unconventional, it has laid the groundwork for a fulfilling and exciting legal career!