Graduating 3L Remy Segovia will move across the country shortly after he graduates from Maine Law.
All the way across the country.
In September, Segovia will begin work with Alaska’s Public Defender Agency in Anchorage. The move and the job isn’t something he necessarily saw for himself three years ago, but Segovia is used to taking stock and changing course.
A graduate of the University of Maine, he initially planned to study journalism with a focus on politics. An ethics in journalism course, however, sparked his interest in First Amendment rights, taking him down a path that would eventually wind up at Maine Law.
Segovia began his 1L year with the intention of working in criminal law. Coursework and experiential learning, however, gradually nudged him in another direction.
During the summer of his 1L year, Segovia worked with the Kennebec County District Attorney’s Office, an experience that introduced him to criminal law. He then worked for criminal defense attorneys during his 2L year before moving on to be a student attorney for the Cumberland County DA’s Office where he worked the following summer and throughout his 3L year.
He also participated in Admiralty Moot Court, an experience that honed his legal writing and oral argument skills to a point where being in a courtroom began to feel increasingly appealing.
“These experiences allowed me to better understand the perspectives of people on all sides,” Segovia explained. “Whether you’re a prosecutor or a defense attorney, usually what everyone wants is to figure out the root cause of the issue and find a sustainable solution. People are usually appreciative when you sit down with them and come from a place of understanding.”
That approach is one he will carry with him to Alaska.
Within the agency, Segovia will work in the civil division, representing parents in custody matters against the state. While he’s never visited Alaska, he said as a long-time resident of Maine he feels prepared for the weather, the wildlife , and many of the social issues pervasive in both states.
And his educational experiences in Maine have also equipped him well.
“One of my biggest takeaways from Maine Law is going to be the importance of developing relationships, with professors, with peers, clients, and throughout the community,” he reflected. “Maine Law has a strong sense of community and I feel that’s because people here like what they do and really value reciprocity.”
He’s looking forward to launching his legal career and developing new relationships and interests in Alaska and wherever else he may land.
“I am most excited about having my own caseload and clients,” he said. “I like this idea of working with someone and fighting with and for them as a team.”
