With yet another year of law school now completed, there was something particularly sweet about walking back onto the 23rd floor of the office of Bilzin Sumberg on my first day back. Since last August, my morning routine consisted of a couple cups of coffee, a quick breakfast, and a day spent under fluorescent lighting at my law school library. As such, you can imagine my relief when, upon exiting the elevator and walking into the lobby, I was greeted by a wonderful view of the sunlit sky and Biscayne Bay. Sometimes it really is the simple things in life.

After getting reacquainted with natural light, I began to think about all the things I missed from my last summer at Bilzin Sumberg. The most obvious, of course, being the free lunches. While it is true that my first summer at Bilzin afforded me the opportunity to interact and work with a number of incredibly helpful, brilliant attorneys, it was the knowledge that I would never go hungry that made accepting my offer for a second summer a no-brainer.

But the free lunches, great as they are, would be nothing without the company. One of the genuine joys of summering here is the chance to wander into conversations with attorneys across totally different practice groups. You sit down expecting small talk and leave having learned something about a deal, a case, or a corner of the law you’d never have encountered in a classroom. Everyone is generous with their time in a way that still surprises me.

The real reason I’m here, of course, is the work. Getting to dig into projects with the Land Use and Government Affairs team has been everything I hoped for. The work is substantive, the stakes are real, and you can actually see how it shapes the city around you. For someone who cares about public service and how communities get built, it doesn’t get much better.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to Rafael Paz, who, out of the pure goodness of his heart and with absolutely no ulterior motives whatsoever, has graciously allowed me to occupy his remarkably spacious office this summer. Rafael, your selflessness knows no bounds, and I will treasure this office as if it were my own — because, for now, it basically is. But don’t worry, I’ll take good care of your plant.  

Here’s to a summer well spent. The library will still be there in the fall, but I’ll come to terms with that later.

Five summer associates standing in the Bilzin Sumberg office lobby in business attire, posing in front of the firm’s wall logo. The group is smiling and dressed in suits, with a modern stone accent wall and office hallway visible in the background.

Welcome to our 2026 Summer Associate class!

Over the coming weeks, our summer associates will gain exposure to a wide range of practices, work with attorneys across the firm, and experience firsthand what makes our team and culture unique. We are excited to introduce them to the collaborative, fast-paced, and engaging environment that defines life at Bilzin Sumberg.

We are looking forward to a great summer.

One unique opportunity our summer associate class had was to be the first to have access to CoCounsel, Westlaw’s legal specific AI tool. During our final week, we had the opportunity to share with the Associate Committee some of our experiences using the tool so that they could better leverage it within their practice groups. Below is some advice we have gathered during our time utilizing these powerful tools:

  1. Know What to Use and When to Use It

Certain AI tools, such as Chat GPT and Gemini, rely on users’ inputs to improve their models. Therefore, nonpublic client information cannot be entered in them. Further, they are prone to hallucinations that can create disastrous results for attorneys.

These tools can still be used for non-legal work. For example, several summer associates used tools like these in drafting and revising their blog posts, but their use should be limited to tasks like these.

Legal specific AI tools, such as those available in Westlaw and Bloomberg, do not suffer from the same risks of privacy and hallucinations. Therefore, you are free to upload sensitive information to them without the risk it will be shared elsewhere. However, it is important to double check the output you receive and not rely on it entirely.

There are also certain instances where assigning attorneys will prefer you do not use AI on an assignment. The summer associate portal had a box where this preference could be dictated. However, if an attorney checked that AI was not permissible to use on an assignment, it might be worth discussing it further with them if you think of a way that it may improve your work product or efficiency. Separately, it is also worth discussing what AI means to them. They may not want you relying on work product drafts from CoCounsel, but be perfectly okay with you starting your legal research process by asking it to pull cases for you.

  1. Know How to Use It

When used improperly, AI tools can be—quite frankly—a waste of time. You could end up spending more time correcting its mistakes or being lead down a rabbit hole to nowhere. The firm offers many opportunities for you to learn how to use CoCounsel efficiently and to get support on using it for your specific assignments.

CoCounsel is likely to be useful no matter what practice area you are in, but it may be worth asking the library about other platforms that could be useful to your specific assignments or practice group of interest.

Finally, and most importantly, be sure to disclose whenever you use it—even if you have already received permission to use it on a specific assignment. The use of generative AI should always be disclosed, but it is also best to err on the side of disclosure when using other AI tools (such as Westlaw and Bloomberg’s AI research tools) even if you are not directly incorporating the output into your work product.

  1. Use It

If you haven’t used a tool like CoCounsel before or are simply used to doing something without it, it is harder to see the value proposition of using AI in your workflow. It may take you longer to spend the time learning how to properly use AI, leveraging its strength and supplementing its weaknesses. But by putting in the initial time to overcome the learning curve, you unlock serious potential to do work better and more efficiently.

As the role of AI in the legal industry continues to grow, it will ultimately make your work product so much more competitive if you become a proficient user of tools like CoCounsel—benefiting the client, the firm, and yourself!

As our summer at Bilzin Sumberg comes to a close, we reflect on a program filled with engaging assignments, daily lunches, and exciting practice group events that offered both valuable learning opportunities and lasting memories. We’ve learned not only about the law, but about the people and culture that make Bilzin Sumberg such a special place.

In honor of the moments that made this summer one to remember, and to continue the yearly tradition, we present to you the 2025 Summer Associates’ Attorney Awards:

Best Storyteller: Marshall Pasternack

Best Dressed: Melissa Pallett-Vasquez and Jessica Buchsbaum

Best Office Decor: Phillip Sosnow and Joy Spillis Lundeen

Best Coffee Recommendations: John Trach

Most Likely to Never Get Tired of Sushi: David Resnick

Most School Spirit: David Seifer

Least Likely to Say No to Lunch: Doug Aguililla

Pickleball Professionals: Ken Duvall and Richard Goldstein

Best Restaurant Recommendations: Adrian Felix

Most Likely to Win an Open Mic Competition: Lucas Pizzutti

We hope these lighthearted awards offer a window into the camaraderie, mentorship, and day-to-day moments that defined our summer at Bilzin Sumberg. We leave with not only new skills, but deep gratitude for the people who made this experience truly special.

Each year, Bilzin Sumberg arranges for its summer associates to attend a breakfast with judges from the Southern District of Florida. In honor of that tradition, Bilzin’s summers travel a few blocks down Brickell Ave, sit with associates summering at firms all across Miami, and enjoy a continental breakfast before receiving advice from the judges. This year, Judge Huck and Judge Altonaga were in attendance, both of whom have presided over the Southern District of Florida for many years.

As a proud University of Florida alum, Judge Huck began the breakfast by introducing himself to each summer associate with a resounding, “Go Gators!” Once everyone finished eating, the two judges moved to the front of the room to give their presentation. Judge Huck began by emphasizing the importance of integrity, encouraging each of us to be prepared and follow our moral compass, as he stressed that reputation is everything in the legal profession.

Judge Altonaga encouraged us to seek out mentors, remain curious, and to always remember that we have a life outside of the office that deserves our care and attention. She shared practical advice about maintaining balance, suggesting that even the busiest lawyers should make time for family and nurture interests beyond the law.
However, what I will remember most about the judges’ presentation was their shared message that we should “be content” as lawyers. They emphasized that the lawyers who act civilly and generously, take pride in their matters, and recognize the lasting impact that their work can have on their clients and communities are the almost always happiest lawyers.

One of the happiest moments of my life was when I received a call from Boston University that I had been accepted into law school. But once I began highlighting cases, forming my outlines, and studying for finals, it was easy to forget that moment and instead complain about my life as a law student. Judge Huck and Judge Altonaga’s speech was a needed reminder to embrace the challenges of law school and life as an associate, care about my clients, and constantly remember that the legal profession is not just a job but a calling to serve.

The judges emphasized that we must “be content” as lawyers. But I plan to do far more than just that. I hope to love my life as a lawyer, both this summer and beyond.

As the 2025 Bilzin Sumberg Summer Associate Program comes to a close, it’s a great time to share some practical advice for next year’s class. The summer flies by quickly, and knowing a few key tips can make all the difference in making the most of your experience. Here’s a guide based on what the 2025 Summer Associate Class has learned:

Be Proactive: The summer goes by quickly, so take initiative from day one. If you’re interested in a particular practice area, reach out to partners or associates and ask for assignments or shadowing opportunities. Don’t hesitate to email someone for coffee or lunch to learn about their path at Bilzin Sumberg. If there are specific projects or client events you want to be part of, express your interest early. Being proactive ensures you get the exposure and experience you’re looking for.

Ask Questions Early and Check In: When you receive an assignment, set up a meeting or call with the assigning attorney. Review the task in advance so you can ask clarifying questions up front. If new questions come up as you work, pause and check in rather than spinning your wheels. In my experience, attorneys appreciate when you seek clarity early, and it helps you deliver your best work.

Be Social: Bilzin Sumberg’s collaborative culture is one of its strengths. Take advantage of social events to connect with attorneys across practice groups, but also make time for informal conversations during lunch or coffee breaks. You’ll discover shared interests and may even land a unique assignment from a casual chat. Don’t limit your interactions to the office—our class bonded over Tuesday Trivia Nights at Taurus in the Grove, weekly Brickell happy hours, and even impromptu outings with associates from different departments.

Build a Relationship with your Mentor: Every summer associate is paired with a mentor—make the most of this resource. Mentors are there to guide you, whether you have questions about assignments, want introductions to attorneys in your area of interest, or even advice on what to wear to the firm’s dinner party. Special shout out to my mentor, Hannah Lidicker, for answering all these questions and more throughout my time here.

Use the 24th Floor Coffee Machine: Don’t miss out on the legendary coffee machine in the attorney lounge on the 24th floor. Take a break, make yourself a latte, and say hello to Adrian Felix and Ken Duvall, who have offices nearby (even though neither drinks coffee). It’s a great spot to meet people and take a breather.

The summer associate program is what you make of it. Be curious, engaged, and open to new experiences. You’ll learn a lot and have fun along the way. Good luck!

As part of our summer associate program, we had the exciting opportunity to participate in a Real Estate Mock Transaction that combined hands-on legal training with a fun and creative storyline inspired by Wicked.

The fictional scenario involved Elphaba (portrayed by Devin Amdursky) purchasing a plot of land in Miami from Glinda (portrayed by Ben Greni), who planned to use the sale proceeds to launch her glitter business. Elphaba and Glinda each had their respective legal teams: Elphaba was represented by Carolina Varas, while Glinda was represented by Ashley Ware, Alex Spillis, and Ashton Terrigno. This imaginative setup added a joyful and engaging element to an already valuable learning experience that would last throughout 7 weeks of the program.

The Three Key Stages of the Transaction

The mock transaction was structured around three main stages, each designed to sharpen our legal skills and deepen our understanding of real estate deals — all while keeping the Wicked storyline front and center.

  1. Drafting and Negotiating the Letter of Intent (LOI)
    Our first task was to draft and negotiate the Letter of Intent. Negotiating the LOI felt like setting the stage for Elphaba’s big Miami purchase, and it involved in-depth disputes over the purchase price, deposit amounts, and closing/inspection periods. The back-and-forth discussions were engaging and rewarding, helping us learn how to balance advocacy with cooperation. I may be biased, but the $48,000,000 purchase price seemed like a huge win for Glinda’s entrepreneurial career.
  2. Reviewing and Negotiating the Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA)
    Next, we dove into the Purchase and Sale Agreement, exploring its key components in detail. This document is the foundation of any real estate transaction, and understanding the nuances is crucial to succeeding in the transaction. Shockingly, this negotiation, which focused on redlines suggested by Glinda’s team, went smoother than the LOI negotiation, likely a result of our growing confidence in navigating a negotiation. By the end, we successfully negotiated provisions involving the Seller’s Representations, Default, Seller’s Liability, and the infamous “As Is” clause.
  3. Preparing and Executing Closing Documents
    The final stage involved preparing and executing the closing documents. This step brought the transaction to a satisfying conclusion and highlighted the importance of precision and attention to detail. Glinda’s attorneys drafted the special warranty deed, no lien affidavit, and general assignment, while Elphaba’s attorney drafted the closing statement.

    “The End”

    Overall, the Real Estate Mock Transaction was a standout experience this summer. Our coaches, Sean Gleason and Lauren Cankaya, provided invaluable support throughout the negotiations, while the transaction leaders, Manny Gonzalez and Phil Sosnow, did an excellent job guiding and teaching us during the entire deal. Thanks to this experience, we’ve strengthened our negotiation, drafting, and transactional skills — all while having a little fun in the world of Wicked.

When I first heard that the summer associate program would “fly by,” I smiled politely but inwardly assumed that was just something people say. Now, with the summer winding down, I can confirm—it really does fly. Part of this I attribute to having the opportunity to work on fascinating projects with associates and partners of the firm, I also attribute it to the active social calendars the Summer Associates get to enjoy as well.


What’s made this experience so memorable isn’t just the legal work, it’s also been the thoughtfully planned schedule filled with events that create community, break up the day, and allow us to get to know each other—and the firm—on a more personal level.


Take this past week as an example:

  • On Tuesday, we swapped our suits for sneakers and hit the padel courts with the Tax, Trusts & Estates team, on Wednesday, every single summer associate showed up to a breakfast event about five days early (whoops) – but instead of going back to our desks, we just grabbed breakfast together anyway.
  • By Thursday, we were ducking behind neon-lit corners in a friendly-but-fierce laser tag match with the Land Use team.

Experiences like these aren’t just about fun—they’re about connection. They’re part of what makes the culture at Bilzin Sumberg so special. There’s a genuine interest here in making sure we’re doing work that matters, but also that we’re enjoying ourselves and building relationships along the way.The summer may have flown by—but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

This week, the 2025 Summer Associate Class visited one of Miami’s most iconic neighborhoods: the Design District. The Miami Design District is an internationally recognized hub of art, design, architecture, and—of course—luxury retail. It also happens to be a long-standing Bilzin Sumberg client.

During our visit, we learned about the history of the Design District and how visionary Craig Robins and his team transformed it into what it is today. We learned how strategic decisions were made to not only revitalize a neighborhood, but to construct an entirely unique space. Often times these decisions deviated from industry norms. They also often required unique legal solutions.

We then went on a tour of the area and saw first-hand how the Design District incorporates art and architecture into real estate development to create an unparalleled experience. Nowhere else can you admire artwork by Urs Fisher and Virgil Abloh, get coffee from Jimmy Butler’s coffee shop, and (window) shop at Dior. We followed our tour with an amazing lunch at MC Kitchen.

What I will take with me from the experience is the continued importance of art and design. Thoughtful, intentional design is often overlooked in favor of efficiency and ease in today’s economy. But through strategic, forward-thinking decisions like those made in the development of the Design District, one can ensure resilience and excellence. I think this applies no matter what field you are in—whether it be art curation, real estate development, or litigation.

On Friday, June 13, the 2025 Summer Associate class, along with Jessica Buchsbaum, joined a dozen other South Florida law firms for a volunteer day at Feeding South Florida.

Feeding South Florida is the region’s largest food bank. It serves Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties and partners with nearly 500 retail stores to advance its mission: ending hunger in South Florida by providing immediate access to nutritious food. To carry out this mission, the organization relies on volunteers to sort, inspect, and package donations to ensure they are safe and ready for distribution to those in need.

We began our morning in the orientation room, where dozens of summer associates from firms across South Florida gathered. The room was filled with familiar faces, giving us a chance to reconnect with law school classmates from other firms before settling in to be briefed on the task ahead.

We learned that over 40% of food produced in the United States is wasted, often due to misleading “best by” or expiration dates that do not accurately reflect a product’s safety. Dry goods like pasta, for instance, remain edible for up to three years past their printed date. Similarly, food is frequently discarded due to cosmetic packaging defects, even when the internal contents are perfectly safe. Feeding South Florida helps divert this excess from landfills by rescuing safe but unsellable products and redistributing them to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.

After orientation, we split into task groups: sorters, inspectors, and runners. The Bilzin Sumberg team took on the role of inspectors. Our job was to carefully examine each item to determine whether it met safety and quality standards.

Food and household goods arrived from partner retailers in large cardboard boxes. First, we separated out non-food items into dedicated donation carts. Then, we inspected each item for visible signs of contamination or damage. We reviewed expiration dates to ensure they were within the acceptable range for the type of product and taped up outer packaging where the internal packaging remained sealed. Approved items were then repacked into new boxes and passed off to the runners for distribution preparation. We continued this process box by box until every item was inspected.

The event was a resounding success. Despite a brief disruption caused by a very fast (and very unexpected) mouse that hitched a ride in one of the boxes, all teams stayed focused and committed. Together, we exceeded our goal by 2,200 pounds, collectively sorting, inspecting, and repackaging 15,200 pounds of food, enough to provide over 12,000 meals to local communities.

Volunteering at Feeding South Florida was a meaningful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together in service of others. It was a privilege to contribute to an organization doing such essential work in our community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to support its mission, one box at a time.