Nathan Nguyen and Ryan Haile both 2Ls at USD School of Law and Isabella Constantino a 2L at ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, found the summer associate program at Finch, Thornton & Baird, LLP to be perfectly aligned with their aspirations. The program provided them with a challenging and rewarding 10 week internship at one of the foremost construction law firms in California.
UPHOLDING THE TRADITION OF EXCEPTIONAL SUMMER ASSOCIATES.
We are honored to continue the legacy of excellence in our summer associate program. This tradition has produced esteemed firm partners P. Randolph Finch Jr., Jeffrey Baird, Louis Blum, Nowell Lantz, Daniel Scholz, and Kelly Floyd all of whom began their legal careers here as summer associates.
Throughout their time with us, Isabella, Ryan, and Nathan have benefited immensely from the guidance of dedicated mentors who have generously shared their expertise and support. These mentors provided invaluable advice, answered numerous questions, and offered direction, fostering an environment of growth and learning. In addition to this mentorship, the summer associates have collaborated closely with our distinguished team of 28 construction law attorneys.
Their experience over the past three months has been both comprehensive and enriching. They have engaged in various critical aspects of legal practice, including conducting legal research, managing extensive document productions, participating in corporate transactions, and assisting with deposition and trial preparation. This hands-on involvement has thoroughly immersed them in the legal profession, preparing them well for their final year of law school.
We take immense pride in fostering their development and achievements throughout this program. We extend our heartfelt wishes for their continued success in their legal careers.
Here’s what Isabella, Nathan, and ryan had to say about their experience:
“The summer associate program at Finch, Thornton & Baird has been the perfect contribution to my professional development. The attorneys and staff were welcoming and willing to teach, and I learned a lot about the practical application of law as well as how to succeed in a firm environment. Being able to take skills learned in law school such as legal research and writing and expand upon them through real cases and projects has made me feel confident in my continued pursuit of a legal career, and excited for a future in law. Construction law touches upon many areas of law and I relished in the opportunity to be exposed to the varying types of questions and issues. I was able to work on motion writing, research, contract preparation, document review, and more. The attorneys were patient and encouraging, and I deeply appreciated their investment in my learning and success. The summer program has been an invaluable experience that has assisted in preparing me to be a competent and well-rounded attorney!”
Isabella Constantino
ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, 2025
“The summer associate program at Finch, Thornton & Baird has offered me a remarkable glimpse into the practice of law. I have had the privilege of immersing myself in various aspects of legal practice, from intricate discovery procedures to rigorous legal research and writing. The exposure to construction law has been particularly enlightening, integrating concepts from contracts, property, and torts into real-world applications. In addition to the intellectually stimulating work, the firm’s inclusive culture has been instrumental. Everyone here has demonstrated a genuine commitment to our development and success, fostering an environment where learning and curiosity flourish. Social events throughout the summer offered valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues, gain insights into the firm, and understand the big picture of our work. This summer has surpassed my expectations, providing a profound glimpse into the life of a practicing attorney. Being part of the FTB team has given me new found confidence and a clear vision for my legal career. I remain deeply grateful to FTB for this enriching experience and eagerly anticipate the possibility of returning and continuing to contribute to the firm’s dynamic environment.”
Nathan Nguyen
USD School of Law, 2025
“The summer associate program at Finch, Thornton & Baird was all that I hoped it would be. During my time here, I have learned a variety of skills and tools that will assist me in the legal trade, as well as met many attorneys that will serve as invaluable contacts in the future. I have researched relevant case law to help the attorneys here form arguments that best support their clients. Additionally, I have prepared memos outlining the relevant case law in certain areas, and I have dealt with organizational matters such as redacting invoices and profiling invoices to send to insurance companies so that clients can get reimbursed. Finally, I even had the opportunity to write an article about a noteworthy Supreme Court decision and explain how that would impact the law going forward. In all, my time here has been incredibly rewarding, and I have learned a lot that will aid in my legal career going forward.”
Ryan Haile
USD School of Law, 2025
