Harrisonburg Law Firm
We Warmly Welcome Nicholas Martinez To Our Harrisonburg Law Firm.
Our Harrisonburg law firm continues to grow and we’re pleased to announce the hiring of Nicholas Martinez, a 2021 graduate of Washington & Lee University School of Law. Nick will be starting work in September and brings a diverse and strong academic and professional background to his role as an Associate with the firm. We touched base with Nick as he studies for the bar and asked him a little bit more about why he chose the law and what a position at Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver means for him.
What got you interested in studying law?
While studying Electrical Engineering as an undergraduate at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, I found that I was missing the human connection you get when you work with people one-on-one. I had always considered going to law school, but it wasn’t until my senior year that I discovered litigation was what I wanted to do for a living.
Is there a specific legal field you hope to practice while at Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver?
My science background and chosen coursework were heavy on intellectual property law, but I’ve learned that I care more about litigation than any specific practice area. As long as I’m working with people and helping them solve their legal challenges, I can find satisfaction in any practice area.
Tell me about your school experiences and professional background.
I’ve been fortunate to work on several different projects while in law school and as an undergraduate. Since May of 2020, I’ve served as a Student Caseworker for the Black Lung Clinic in Lexington, VA, helping to gather evidence for coal miners seeking Federal Black Lung Benefits at various stages of litigation. While in law school, I was also a Research Assistant for Margaret Hu, a Washington & Lee legal professor focusing on privacy. During my undergrad work, I was the Lead Engineer for a multidisciplinary engineering design project funded by NASA.
What do you do in your free time?
I love being outdoors, backpacking and skiing. I even spent a year after college as a backpacking guide and skiing instructor. I’m also an avid hockey fan and hope Harrisonburg installs a skating rink soon!
