Valuable Experience: Justin Larson Expands Legal Knowledge With Hometown Externship
Larson earned his bachelor’s degree from South Dakota State University before his time at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law. Following the completion of his first year of law school, Larson externed at Austin, Strait, Benson, Thole & Koehn LLP in Watertown. Larson had connections with some of the partners prior to law school, but a career fair event helped seal the deal.
While at the firm, Larson assisted with everything from mediations to jury trials. His primary responsibilities included conducting research, reviewing materials and preparing or drafting various documents.
"All of the partners have a different specialized practice and were more than willing to get me involved," said Larson. "I have enjoyed learning different areas of law that the law firm has to offer. Some of the experiences I had were once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, and I will be forever grateful to be involved."
Not only did Larson gain invaluable experience through his externship, but he also earned four hours of credit toward his law degree.
We asked Larson about his work at Austin, Strait, Benson, Thole & Koehn LLP, as well as his time at the state’s only law school, and this is what he had to say.
What insights have you gained through your externship that you might not have learned in the classroom?
As a first-generation law student without a legal background, I tended to comprehend classes as if existing in a vacuum. Throughout my first year, I realized this flaw but did not rationalize a more complete understanding of how varying principles work in unison until I started assessing real fact patterns in my externship.
What is something that surprised you during your externship experience?
Something that surprised me is how humbling the attorney-client relationship can be. I witnessed firsthand how emotions can create another level of complexity compared to objectively reading fact patterns in a textbook. For the majority of the clients, the reason for seeking legal counsel involves one of the most important decisions in their life, and that trust is placed in the hands of an attorney. Regardless if you win or lose, there is an emotional toll on both the client and the attorney.
What is the most valuable skill you’ve learned that you will take into your remaining time in law school and your legal career?
Prior to attending law school, I thought school would teach me exactly what I needed to know to be successful; however, some of the most valuable experience comes from outside the classroom. I have since learned the most valuable skill is diligence and that working hard will almost always pay off.
How has your time at the USD Knudson School of Law prepared you for this experience?
All my classes and professors played a role in preparing for this externship. At some point in time, I utilized pieces I learned from them all.
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