Ten days into Ann Weber’s externship at the Washington Lawyers’ Committee, DC Prisoners’ Project Director Deb Golden got some unexpectedly early news. She called Ann into her office, threw down a stack of files, and said, “I’m having a baby today.” Ann didn’t panic.

Instead, Ann immediately became an essential member of WLC’s small DC Prisoners’ Project team. “She was a lifesaver,” said Deb.

During her five months at the WLC, Ann took over settlement negotiations for two of WLC’s major cases against the Bureau of Prisons. One, on behalf of inmates with mental illnesses, and the other on behalf of a deaf prisoner. She adeptly handled individual client issues, interviewing prisoners, fielding letters and phone calls from incarcerated DC residents across the country, and providing clients with resources and referrals. Ann also advised on pleadings in active litigation, investigated potential lawsuits, and coordinated with our law firm partners.

According to Ann, the externship was “an invaluable learning experience. Not only was I able to work on interesting and rewarding matters, but I was able to grow as a litigator by further developing case management and client services skills. I’m heading back to Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP with a new set of skills and new energy that will surely benefit both the firm and our clients.”

We are deeply thankful to Ann for her impressive contributions during her short time at the WLC and to Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP for sharing her with us. We cannot wait for our next Willkie associate!