Samuel S. Lionel Externship Program

Judge Carli Kierny

• What motivated you to become an externship field supervisor and mentor for Boyd students in your chambers, and what has that experience been like for you?

  "As a law student, I did not know what area of law I wanted to practice until I was lucky enough to be placed in a clinic with an amazing professor. Getting to see how he handled his cases first-hand convinced me that I wanted to practice criminal law. I hope that I can provide that same clarity to externs in my chambers. I have a diverse docket, which allows my externs to see a wide array of cases. I really enjoy assisting law students on their journey to becoming practicing attorneys."

   

• From your perspective, how does an externship in your chambers shape future lawyers, and in what ways does it strengthen the legal profession? 

  "An externship in my chambers gives students a behind-the-scenes view of what goes into judicial decision-making. Externs get to see some of the best attorneys in the state trying homicide and civil cases. They are then able to take these lessons with them when they practice law."

   

• What key lessons or professional skills do you hope students gain from their externship with you? 

  "I hope students realize how small the legal profession is in Nevada, and how important it is to treat other attorneys with courtesy and respect from the minute their careers start." 

   

Judge Brenda Weksler ('03)

• What motivated you to become an externship field supervisor and mentor for Boyd students in your chambers, and what has that experience been like for you?

  "I believe the legal profession has a responsibility to prepare the next generation of lawyers, and it is especially rewarding to do so with my alma mater. Working with curious students who ask thoughtful questions is inspiring, challenges me to articulate my own reasoning and practices in ways that sharpen them, and reminds me of the values that first drew me to this work."

   

• From your perspective, how does an externship in your chambers shape future lawyers, and in what ways does it strengthen the legal profession?

  "Externships give students a front-row seat to the day-to-day realities of lawyering—from the pace of deadlines to the nuances of professional judgment. An externship is also a great opportunity to refine legal writing, research, and analytical skills while gaining a behind-the-scenes view of how judges approach decision-making."

   

• What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

  "Pick your battles"