Adrian F. Snead is an attorney at Porter Wright with experience in consumer protection, litigation, and public service. His career includes work at the U.S. Department of Justice, the Obama White House, and the federal judiciary. He is also a longtime member of the Hispanic National Bar Association.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
- [02:44] Adrian Snead’s work in consumer protection law and his commitment to addressing unfair and deceptive business practices.
- [04:17] How growing up in Texas and earning scholarships shaped his journey into the legal profession.
- [05:31] His experience working at the Department of Justice, the Obama White House, and in international arbitration.
- [08:08] Why Adrian believes trials provide something settlements often cannot: the opportunity for people to tell their stories.
- [10:05] What federal judicial clerkships involve and why they can be valuable opportunities for young attorneys.
- [15:01] The differences between trial courts and appellate courts, and the unique experience of clerking in Washington, D.C.
- [20:34] How a chance conversation at an HNBA conference helped open the door to a White House opportunity.
- [23:14] Why the Hispanic National Bar Association has played such an important role in Adrian’s professional development.
- [24:05] The value of understanding both plaintiff and defense litigation strategies.
- [26:52] Why trial attorneys should consider appellate issues before a case ever reaches a verdict.
- [29:42] How professional relationships and HNBA connections helped Adrian secure an opportunity at Amazon.
- [31:53] Adrian’s message to the world: “Believe and believe in yourself.”
In this episode…
Recorded live at the Hispanic National Bar Association’s Annual Convention in Washington, D.C., John Gomez and David Arreguin welcome Adrian F. Snead, an attorney at Porter Wright, for a conversation about consumer protection, trial advocacy, judicial clerkships, and the power of professional relationships.
Adrian shares his journey from San Antonio, Texas, to Washington, D.C., including experiences at the Department of Justice, the Obama White House, and the federal judiciary. He reflects on how scholarships, mentorship, and unexpected connections helped shape his legal career.
The conversation explores why trials matter beyond their outcomes, the importance of understanding both sides of litigation, and how attorneys can become stronger advocates by preparing for potential appeals. Adrian also discusses the lasting impact of the Hispanic National Bar Association, from opening doors to career opportunities to building a supportive community of Latino legal professionals.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Gomez Trial Attorneys: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook
- John Gomez on LinkedIn
- David Arreguin on LinkedIn
- Adrian F. Snead at Porter Wright
- Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP
- Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA)
Quotable moments
- “Sometimes getting in the door is the hardest part.”
- “A trial is therapeutic.”
- “It was so important to do it. I got to tell my story.”
- “When I write, I write for the clerk. I take them step by step.”
- “I think it’s really important that people understand how vital clerks are to the judiciary.”
- “I think both sides need to understand the others better.”
- “If you’re not setting your trial up for the potential appeal, you’re in danger.”
- “It’s the most comfortable conference I can go to.”
- “Believe and believe in yourself.”
Action steps
- Pursue opportunities beyond your comfort zone. Apply for scholarships, internships, and clerkships even when you feel your credentials may not be enough.
- Build meaningful professional relationships. A simple conversation at a conference can lead to unexpected career opportunities.
- Learn how the judiciary works. Understanding the responsibilities of judicial clerks can help you become a more effective legal writer and advocate.
- Value trial experience. Recognize the importance of giving clients the opportunity to tell their stories and seek resolution through the legal process.
- Understand both sides of litigation. Studying plaintiff and defense strategies can strengthen your effectiveness in the courtroom.
- Prepare for appeals early. Consider potential appellate issues throughout trial preparation to protect your client’s interests.
- Get involved in professional organizations. Attend conferences, participate in educational programs, and build connections with attorneys from different practice areas.
- Invest in practical training. Look for trial academies, appellate workshops, and opportunities to develop courtroom skills.
- Believe in yourself. Don’t allow self-doubt to prevent you from pursuing meaningful professional opportunities.
Sponsor for this episode…
This episode is brought to you by Gomez Trial Attorneys, a personal injury law firm based in San Diego.
Award-winning attorney John Gomez developed a nationally recognized legal team that goes above and beyond for injured clients.
With numerous designations, distinctions, and top-notch resources, we have what it takes to fight and win against major corporations.
For a free case evaluation, visit https://www.thegomezfirm.com/contact/.