Episode 7 - "Michael Hirst the Attorney!"
Today on The K Files, Katie talks to a very special guest: Michael Hirst, the attorney! Michael is the owner of his own law firm, Hirst Law Group in Davis, California. With experience in many aspects of the law, Michael is a renowned attorney and has 15 years of experience as an Assistant US Attorney for the Eastern District of California. Some of his cases have been featured on national television shows like 60 Minutes, ABC, and NPR, and in front-page stories in publications such as the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, just to name a few! He has also received multiple prestigious awards, including some from federal agencies, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Health and Human Services. During our conversation today, Michael shares valuable insights regarding what an attorney does and the different types of laws they can practice. He tells us about his career journey and how working as an investigator ultimately led him to pursue a career in law. He gives listeners some great nuggets of advice, especially for those considering a similar career path. So, if you’re interested in maybe becoming an attorney someday, do not miss today’s jam-packed episode!
Key Points From This Episode:
What an attorney does and the different types of law they can practice.
Michael’s career journey, from graduating from law school to working at Hirst Law Group.
How being an investigator for medical malpractice lawsuits led him to become an attorney.
Insight into his post-secondary education journey (and what he studied at college).
Why Michael thinks that internships are a great idea.
His recommendation for those considering law school: work as a paralegal.
What makes working for the government different than working at a law firm.
The story behind how Michael started his own law firm.
Key differences between working for yourself and working for the government.
Michael’s experience of teaching federal court litigation and trial technique classes at UC Davis for the international law program.
His favorite part of being an attorney (and the work involved).
Keeping up with the law; how Michael finds the process of staying up to date.
He elaborates on the bar exam and taking continuing legal education classes.
Parting advice for anyone considering a similar career path!
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: