Lessons Learned from My Externship at Henries PLLC
As a law student with a strong interest in the intersection of beauty, fashion, and the law, my externship at Henries PLLC provided a unique opportunity to engage directly with the legal and business challenges shaping these industries. Over the course of the semester, I gained meaningful insight into the many ways attorneys operate within these industries.
During my time at Henries, I contributed to a variety of projects spanning corporate governance, intellectual property, and brand protection. My work included reviewing bylaws, drafting client-facing templates, conducting audits for potentially infringing material, and preparing cease-and-desist letters. While my coursework provided a foundation in these areas, this experience reinforced the importance of applying legal knowledge in a practical, business-oriented context.
A key takeaway from my externship is that effective legal counsel is inherently tailored. At Henries, legal solutions are not one-size-fits-all; they are carefully crafted to align with each client’s specific needs and goals. This approach requires not only legal precision, but also a nuanced understanding of the industries the firm serves.
Another particularly enlightening aspect of my experience was observing Henries PLLC as a specialized firm operating at the intersection of traditional legal services and in-house counsel. The attorneys approach each engagement with an entrepreneurial mindset, consistently seeking opportunities to deliver added value beyond discrete legal tasks.
A strong example of this was my work on developing an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) research tracker. I was responsible for compiling and organizing evolving laws and regulations impacting ESG, particularly as they relate to fashion, beauty, and consumer goods companies. This tool was designed not only to support the firm’s internal advisory work but also to serve as a resource for clients navigating rapidly changing regulatory landscapes. This project demonstrated how Henries proactively anticipates client needs and creates practical tools to support them beyond traditional legal advice.
My time at Henries PLLC was incredibly fulfilling, offering an exceptional opportunity to gain practical legal experience at a specialized firm focused on the luxury, apparel, fashion, beauty, and consumer goods industries. I am incredibly grateful to the entire Henries team for their guidance and support throughout the semester. I look forward to applying the skills and insights I’ve gained to future opportunities in my legal career. I am especially thankful to Beth Henries for her mentorship, which has been invaluable both during this externship and as I continue to grow professionally.