Y-ADR Spotlight Series - Interview Questions with Samuel Zimmerman
Samuel Zimmerman
Hogan Lovells
1. What has been a beneficial aspect of engaging with the CPR Institute for you personally or professionally?
Absolutely the connections I have made, but specifically the fact that CPR members come from so many different areas of the profession. CPR is the only organization I have been involved with that has the level of participation from the full spectrum outside counsel, neutrals, in-house counsel, law students, and others—not to mention the geographic diversity. Those different perspectives are what makes CPR committees and events so consistently engaging.
2. What is one piece of advice you would give to somebody who wanted to pursue a career in ADR?
Study comparative law, and particularly comparative procedure. One of the key benefits of ADR is its flexibility. But in order to take advantage of that flexibility you need to understand why the rules and systems exist, how they work, and the various options available.
3. At what point did you realize that this career choice was best for you?
Late in my first year in practice. A team joined my firm with a major international arbitration that was about to go to hearing. I got thrown right into the fire and loved it. I did a variety of other civil litigation as a young associate before specializing, but right from the beginning I knew that international arbitration was for me.
4. What personal characteristics are most beneficial to you in your career?
Patience and flexibility. A career as outside counsel can often be trying and stressful, with long hours and demands imposed by our clients, colleagues, and our own perfectionism. To have a long and fulfilling career, it’s important to maintain perspective, adapt to circumstances that arise, and take your time and peace when you can have it.
5. How can people with an interest in ADR get hands-on experience to further their career?
Join CPR! In all seriousness, the ADR community has more organizations and holds more events, conferences, competitions, etc. than any other area of law. CPR’s are exceptional, but whatever your level of experience, location, or particular interests, there is likely an ADR group that is a good fit for you where you can actively engage, learn, and, if you want, work towards a leadership position.
6. What is your favorite ADR process to practice?
International commercial arbitration. It’s litigation, but we get to make our own rules and actually go to trial. My favorite parts of this career are doing oral advocacy and examining witnesses, and that it what commercial arbitration offers.
7. (Fun one!) Describe your perfect Friday night in 5 words or less.
New restaurant with my wife