Cobi Burnett ('23)

Where were you serving?

I served in the Second Judicial District Court in Washoe County, Nevada under the Honorable Barry L. Breslow. 

How long were you in this office? 

I was in this position for one year, from August 2023 to September 2024. 

What did your typical week involve? 

A typical week consisted of numerous hearings every day. Given the incredible caseload most of our Judges have here in Washoe County, we were in trial quite often. If we were not in trial, days were spent drafting orders and memoranda for the Court, game planning with staff and colleagues for upcoming matters, and speaking directly with Judge Breslow on cases at hand. 

What did you enjoy most about serving your community? 

I truly enjoyed watching trials. It’s such a unique experience to witness a trial, but even more special to be behind the scenes of it all. Trial was never boring, and days flew by - getting the chance to watch experienced attorneys craft their arguments, attempt to persuade the jury, and motion to the Court for decisions was so influential. It also helped me to decide what it is I would like to delve into, and what it is I would definitely like to shy away from. Helping the community is a natural byproduct of working in the court system - and one that a law clerk can experience up close. I had multiple individuals express their gratitude at our service and become emotional when talking with me about their situations. You don’t realize the impact you’re making until you see it in your town, with your people. 

Can you share an interesting story or memory from your role?

One of my fondest memories of my clerkship stems from educational opportunities I was able to have with local students. Our department visited numerous charities, organizations, and schools during my clerkship - we were able to gain insight into the services they provided while also explaining what we do/the purpose of our actions. Our team visited the new Hug High School in Sparks and spoke to an AP Government class about our jobs and experiences. Seeing the students light up with questions, not just for myself and Judge, but for the police officers who accompanied us, was truly special. The community deserves to know more of what goes on behind the scenes, to not only better appreciate the hard work that goes into the justice system, but to be more involved, outspoken, and educated on how it can better impact themselves and their lives.