Elizabeth Blackford
Associate, Litigation – Austin

Experience: What attracted you to Pillsbury as a summer associate, and how did that experience meet or exceed your expectations?

I first became interested in Pillsbury after hearing a summer associate speak at an on-campus event about her experience. What truly sealed the deal for me, though, were my conversations with Ben Bernell and Ed Cavazos during the OCI process. The student emphasized how Pillsbury intentionally aligned her interests with the firm’s workflow needs, and Ben’s transparency about practice group priorities really reinforced that message. He clearly explained how my skills and interests would fit within the firm, and that honesty and intentionality made Pillsbury stand out.

Firm Culture: What is it about the firm’s culture that made you want to return after your summer associate experience?

The camaraderie and collaborative environment made a lasting impression on me. Before law school, I was told to think about who I’d want beside me during a trial or a 16-hour workday, and I truly found that group here. The people in this office support one another, celebrate each other’s wins, and genuinely enjoy spending time together. It’s not just professional courtesy; it’s authentic connection. That sense of teamwork and mutual respect made me confident that this is where I want to build my career.
 
Career Development: How did the firm support your career development goals during the summer associate program?

Pillsbury did an incredible job of supporting and fostering my professional growth. Although I was hired into general litigation, I was encouraged to explore a variety of practice areas, including energy, trademark, and environmental litigation. When I expressed a specific interest in energy litigation, the firm went out of its way to connect me with attorneys across offices doing that type of work. That proactive support showed me that Pillsbury truly invests in helping associates build careers that reflect their strengths and interests.

Closing Question:  If you could sum up your experience as a summer associate in one sentence, what would it be?

My summer at Pillsbury was a reminder that the people you work with matter just as much as the work itself, and I found a place where both are exceptional.