This semester, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in Temple Law’s “Ethics in Practice” course. I gained practical legal skills training during the course, and it was a defining highlight of my one-year study visit to the United States.
“Ethics in Practice”, taught by Professor Sara Jacobsen, is a one-credit course available to students in their second semester of the LL.M. for Foreign-Trained Lawyers program. Students of the course are placed short in observational externships with a lawyer or legal advocacy organization.
Attorney John McMeekin of Rawle & Henderson LLP served as my mentor during the program. His meticulously designed 12-hour observation program, structured into three comprehensive modules, allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the essence of legal practice in the United States. The modules included Arbitration Observation, Mediation Practice Study, and Post-Judgement Procedure Observation.
During an arbitration hearing led by Attorney Jennifer Seme, we witnessed an efficient dispute resolution performed by a team of seasoned lawyers. Attorney Seme stood out for her passionate and professional responses to questions, and she demonstrated a commendable balance of legal expertise and genuine care.
We also had the chance to observe Attorney McMeekin act as a mediator. By guiding all parties to focus on solutions with remarkable adeptness, he exemplified the core values of effective communication and impartiality in dispute resolution. Through his efforts, the session offered a valuable example of how legal professionals can foster resolution with both skill and empathy.
In the third module, we had the opportunity to participate in a post-hearing debate chaired by Judge Fletman. This session provided meaningful insight into the judicial process and underscored the seriousness with which justice is pursued in court. Judge Fletman’s detailed explanation of the case background and her patient guidance during the Q&A session was especially appreciated.
When asked if he considered serving as a mediator a form of social responsibility, Attorney McMeekin responded that it was “not only a social responsibility but also an opportunity for professional duty and career development. It is precisely these qualities that have made me a better lawyer”.
Beyond his professional contributions, Attorney McMeekin’s genuine encouragement and communication reflected a strong commitment to supporting students and left a meaningful impression on me.
I am very fortunate to have participated in a program that made it possible to engage directly with accomplished legal practitioners. The opportunities offered through Temple Law School were incredibly meaningful and instrumental in shaping my experience as an LL.M. student.
