As Ansell.Law’s Summer Associate Program winds down, so does one of the most formative experiences in a law student’s early career. Each summer, we welcome exceptional law students to our Firm to gain exposure to a broad spectrum of legal disciplines in an exciting, fast-paced, and collegial environment. Our Summer Associate Program is designed to provide rising 3Ls with real-world, hands-on experience that can form a solid foundation for sustained success in the practice of law.
Our 2026 Summer Associates, Grace Hanlon and Elijah Scheininger, sat down for a conversation reflecting on their recent tenure at the Firm before returning to law school for their final year. Grace attends Seton Hall University School of Law, and Elijah attends Barry University School of Law.
What were your favorite parts of the summer program?
GH: Enjoying lunch with all the different practice groups was my favorite part! Meeting lawyers from different practice areas and having the opportunity to work on a variety of assignments throughout the summer were also very rewarding. Learning about the different practice areas that I was not familiar with was especially informative.
ES: My favorite parts of the summer program were working and learning from the talented attorneys at the Firm. The Firm hosted lunches with each department throughout the summer, allowing us to create personal relationships with everyone. I was also lucky enough to work, collaborate, and become friends with my fellow summer associate Grace, who is as smart as they come!
Was there a special moment or experience that had a significant impact on you?
ES: Observing Kelsey Barber at her trial over a property dispute at the Monmouth County Courthouse. Being able to assist with trial prep and then see her perform at the highest level was a very rewarding experience. Her calm and confident demeanor was incredible to watch.
GH: Working with Nicole Benis and Kelsey Barber. Every day, Nicole and Kelsey welcomed Elijah and me with a smile and were excited to involve us in their cases. I am thankful to have found such fantastic mentors!
Did a particular practice area pique your interest? Which one and why?
ES: I was, and still am, very interested in criminal law; however, this summer allowed me to experience many different sectors of the law, notably bankruptcy. Working with Nicole Benis and other attorneys at the Firm on bankruptcy matters was a very fascinating experience and gave me greater confidence in this area of the law.
GH: Bankruptcy and estate work. I had no exposure to these areas before working here, and I really enjoyed getting the opportunity to work on a few estate matters and bankruptcy cases.
What surprised you the most about experiencing life in a law firm?
GH: How much everyone works together and is willing to help each other, even people in different practice areas. The strong camaraderie here made my first job at a law firm much less intimidating.
ES: What surprised me most was how helpful and team-oriented everyone is at the Firm. I was nervous about coming in on our first day, but every attorney I had the pleasure of working with was extremely helpful and gave me advice I will carry with me for the rest of my career.
What did you learn during the summer program that will benefit you during law school?
ES: Drafting research memos, interrogatories, deficiency letters, and multiple other projects across the spectrum of law polished my legal writing and analysis skills. I’ve become more comfortable analyzing different issues, which will help me write my upper-level writing requirement during my 3L year of law school.
GH: This fall, I am participating in the Family Clinic at Seton Hall Law. I gained important foundational skills working alongside Al Caso, where I drafted settlement agreements, wrote research memos, and sat in on client meetings. That knowledge I gained in family law matters at the Firm will guide me all semester in becoming a competent student attorney.