Working as a student prosecutor in the Dorchester District Court was an incredibly educational and enjoyable experience, for which I owe many thanks to the Paul McLaughlin Memorial Fellowship Committee. This summer I was certified to practice as a student attorney and worked with many inspirational practitioners at the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office in Dorchester. Prior to my fellowship placement, I aspired to become a trial attorney helping victims of crime, and the summer's experiences provided strong affirmation of this goal. In Dorchester, I was part of a team of attorneys whose diligent work and appreciation for the trial system ensure a fair process for both defendants and victims of crime.

Working as a McLaughlin Fellow with this dedicated team vastly expanded my opportunities within a trial law setting. For example, within my first week I was given a case that was set for oral arguments on the defendant's motion to suppress physical evidence and statements. This task required researching the relevant law, composing an argument on the behalf of the Commonwealth and preparing witnesses to call during the hearing. I was given the trust and tools to independently accomplish each step in this process, and thanks to this great opportunity, I was able to address the Court, argue that evidence should not be suppressed, and bring witnesses to the stand to testify. The Judge ruled that the evidence would be admissible and the case is set for trial in October of 2008. Throughout the preparation for this evidentiary hearing and oral argument, and during the court proceeding, I received guidance and encouragement from the Assistant District Attorneys, Judge and court officers. I felt welcomed to the legal community and immediately fell in love with courtroom work.

In addition to researching and arguing motions, I had the chance to represent the Commonwealth's position when requesting bail to be set in the arraignment session, arguing to revoke bail on repeat offenders, and refuse bail to dangerous defendants. I was also taught how to conduct a "probation violation hearing" when a probationer is charged with a new offense and the probation department is seeking detainment. With coaching by an Assistant District Attorney, I called many witnesses and cross-examined many defense witnesses during such proceedings. I prepared many cases for trial but quickly learned that most cases get settled in a plea bargain or do not go to trial as scheduled; therefore, I represented the Commonwealth in many plea bargains, which provided favorable outcomes for all parties. Late in the summer, I was fortunate enough to take one case to trial, which was invigorating and eye-opening. It was such a great sense of accomplishment to put into action everything I learned in Trial Practice Seminar: making opening and closing statements, examining witnesses, entering evidence, and making and responding to objections. This opportunity to apply the rules of evidence and witness legal theory in practice offered me an invaluable experience. Additionally, the members of the District Attorney team were all knowledgeable and open to my questions, which significantly enhanced the educational value of the McLaughlin fellowship.

Spending time in the District Attorney's Office as a student practitioner melded together my academic studies and long-held professional goals. The Fellowship gave me confidence that only comes through experience, and reinforced that my current track will lead to a challenging and rewarding career. I can hardly wait to return to a courtroom, seeking justice for all parties and a positive impact on my community. I sincerely thank Attorney Paul McLaughlin's family and friends for this incredible opportunity.