New Lawyer. Real Talk. One Year In, Guided by Purpose and Service

Becoming a lawyer is about more than knowing the law—it’s about listening, earning trust, and helping people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. In this candid Q&A, one of DWK’s newest attorneys, Miguel Ramos, shares what he has learned during his first year, how a background in the medical field adds insight to his work, and why service is at the heart of it all.

Q: Looking back on your first year as an attorney, what has been the most surprising or eye-opening aspect of practicing law?  

A: The mutual respect that attorneys have for each other. When you watch on TV and in the movies, you think that each side is planning their own little war against the other. It doesn’t work like that. For the most part, each side is just looking for the trust.  Attorneys, at least the ones I’ve worked with and against, have a deep belief in justice for whoever they’re representing. It gives me pride to call them colleagues. 

The attention to detail in every aspect of a case. From the first time speaking to a client to the shaking their hand as a case is closed, there is an attention to detail that has to be taken or you could miss something. 

Everyone needs an attorney at some point in their life. Whether a friend gets in a car accident or someone needs help reading a contract, there’s always a moment when someone needs help. It may not always be about an injury, but it feels good to be able to help.

Q: Can you share a memorable case or client interaction that had a significant impact on you?  

A: I have two that come to mind. The first case I originated on my own. It was my first week after getting sworn in and a client from my previous job called me. They were from Atlanta and visiting Orlando. The client got into a car accident. They knew I had changed careers. They called me because they were injured. It felt great to know that people trusted me, regardless of my experience.

The second case involves a client who had previously worked with a very large law firm. The client was very unhappy with the old firm and had a distaste for the legal system. One of our firm’s partners was able to retain the case, and he gave it to me to work on.  Not only did we maximize his recovery, but the client’s attitude towards attorneys also completely changed.  He couldn’t have been happier with his decision and was very happy with our work.

Q: How has your background in the medical field influenced your approach to handling personal injury and medical malpractice cases?  

A:  My experience in medical devices has already made a big difference. I’m comfortable with medical protocols and systems, which gives me an edge when evaluating cases. One of my first malpractice reviews involved a case that another firm had already declined. After a detailed review, I realized exactly what went wrong medically and what the other firm missed. That perspective is invaluable.

Q: What advice would you give to law students or new attorneys starting their careers? 

A: My advice to new law students that if you’re in a position where your financial responsibilities are not significant, I strongly recommend working for the state for a couple years before entering the private sector. The valuable experience you will get working with a District Attorney or a Public Defender is immeasurable. When I meet young attorneys, I can immediately tell the difference between ones who do and ones who don’t. The second thing I would recommend is to surround yourself with people who really want you to succeed. As a new attorney, you don’t know everything. You will need to ask questions. Your biggest cheerleaders will be the first ones to help and will be glad to do so.