As my summer internship at Modern Legal comes to a close, I have found myself reflecting not just on what I learned, but on how I have grown both personally and professionally. I have been lucky enough to have had a front-row seat to how this team operates, how our attorneys navigate complex situations, and how they lead with both precision and heart.
One of the most impactful parts of this internship was the opportunity to observe. Sitting in on consultations with prospective clients gave me a window into the real-life challenges families face and the vital role attorneys play in guiding them through those challenges. Each consultation was unique to everyone and their situations. And each time, I saw how the attorneys adapted their approach to meet the client where they were. What stood out most to me were the skills practiced by the attorneys like active listening, patience, and the ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, compassionate guidance during deeply personal and often painful moments.
I also had the opportunity to attend a virtual mediation, which opened my eyes to a side of law I had not fully appreciated before. Watching a dispute be resolved outside of a courtroom revealed just how much skill goes into these negotiations. It was fascinating to see how much strategy and preparation goes into these discussions, and how much of the outcome depends not just on the facts of the case, but on interpersonal dynamics, timing, and negotiation skills. It reminded me that great lawyers are not just experts in the law, they are also facilitators, advocates, and peacemakers.
Even in the more routine parts of the job like answering phones, scheduling appointments, and gathering information from new clients, I came to understand how critical those first steps are. Intake may seem simple, but it is the client’s first impression of the firm, and it can shape everything that follows. That first point of contact can set the tone for the entire attorney-client relationship. I saw firsthand how much compassion, clarity, and professionalism matters, even before a case officially begins.
More than anything, this summer solidified my interest in family law. It is not a field for the faint of heart. It demands legal knowledge, yes; but also empathy, adaptability, and a deep sense of service. The attorneys at Modern Legal embody those qualities every day. Watching them work with such care and conviction has been nothing short of inspiring.
I am incredibly grateful to the Modern Legal team for welcoming me into their world this summer. They did not just teach me about law, they showed me what it looks like to practice it with integrity and purpose. I leave this internship more confident in my goals, and even more excited to pursue a future in law.
If you want to learn more about family law services, our team at Modern Legal is here to help.
Written by: Talia Hitt
Inspired by her own experiences with domestic violence and the family court system, Theresa E. Viera became the first lawyer in her family, graduating from the University of North Carolina School of Law. She has dedicated her career to helping families find healthy solutions through various legal tools, including negotiations, mediation, collaborative law, and litigation when necessary. With years of experience in Family Law, she strives to inspire others and make a positive impact on the lives of her clients, just as her mother’s attorney once inspired her.
