The Middle District Welcomes Summer Law Clerks and Interns for Federal Practice Workshop

On June 11, 2026, the Middle District of Alabama welcomed summer law clerks and interns from local firms and the Supreme Court of Alabama to the Federal Practice Workshop. The group met in the Ceremonial Courtroom to hear from Chief U.S. District Judge Huffaker as he shared his journey from an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering to Chief Judge. He gave insight into the structure and process of the federal court system, the functions and duties of the Middle District of Alabama, and the value of a judicial clerkship, especially within the federal court.

The attendees next heard from Chief Magistrate Judge Doyle as he led a panel discussion with fellow Magistrate Judges Jerusha Adams, Kelly Pate, and Chad Bryan. They each described their journey to law school, varied career paths as law clerks and practicing attorneys, and how those experiences prepared them for their current positions as magistrate judges. Each judge stressed the importance of a clerkship and exploring all areas of the law to strengthen an individual’s experience and skills and to find the corner of law that is most fulfilling and engaging for them personally.

The summer law clerks and interns had the unique experience of witnessing a sentencing with U.S. District Judge Bill Lewis presiding. They watched the arguments, objections, and calling and cross-examination of a witness. Immediately following the hearing, Judge Lewis joined counsel of record Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Moore and Stephen Ganter of the Federal Defenders Office in a discussion of the criminal proceedings. The three talked with and answered questions for guests about preparing for court, the differences in state and federal court proceedings, and their personal experiences within the federal court.

The attendees then enjoyed lunch in the Jury Assembly Room with the judges as well as their career law clerks and term law clerks. They had the opportunity to ask questions about the day’s proceedings, get advice regarding law school and early careers, and hear about individual journeys within the court. This event allowed judges and their law clerks to share their experience and wisdom with attendees and gave those beginning their careers in law the opportunity to learn from the Middle District of Alabama.