Second-Year Law Student Finds Experience and Inspiration in Civil Litigation Internship
Internships represent an important step in any law student’s career, and Rodney Axson Jr’s summer gave him hands-on experience in various legal fields, enhancing his practical skills and professional development.
To secure the internship, Axson researched firms in Montana that practice agriculture law, an area of the field that he is passionate about. Through cold calls, he introduced himself and explored opportunities for students, ultimately leading to his position at Moulton Bellingham P.C.
As the sole intern at a firm with over 20 attorneys, Axson worked on a wide range of legal areas, including bankruptcy, oil and gas law, property law, wills, and real estate and land use law.
Axson’s favorite aspect of the internship was the hands-on practice of law; that exposure provided him with a well-rounded understanding of civil litigation.
He enjoyed the opportunity to find unique solutions to help clients, an experience that underscored the impactful nature of legal work.
“The experience taught me that not every case is as clear cut as it seems,” said Axson. “I also learned how to be an efficient researcher, find ways to use a law’s interpretation to the benefit of the client, how to ask better questions to get the information required, and when to admit I need help.”
Axson stated that the skills gained from his time at the firm will remain crucial for his continued success in law school and beyond.
One of the most significant lessons Axson learned was the importance of adaptability in legal writing and document drafting. Working with various attorneys, Axson discovered that there is no single way to approach legal tasks.
This experience pushed Axson to become a more versatile and proficient writer, capable of working to meet different preferences and requirements.
Axson credits his property class with Professor Ann Tweedy, J.D., as the most relevant course for his internship, given his focus on property cases. Additionally, Dean Shirley Mays, J.D., played a pivotal role in his preparation, encouraging him to step out of his comfort zone and analyze each step of a case. Axson noted that their guidance was instrumental in his successful internship experience.
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