Environmental Partner Brian Moskal was featured in the ACC Southern California Chapter's Member Spotlight, where he discussed his environmental law practice, his involvement with the ACC SoCal ACCess Internship Program, and his commitment to supporting first-generation law students.

Please tell us about your current role and practice focus.

I am a partner at Greenberg Glusker LLP. We are a full-service law firm and the largest single-office firm in Los Angeles. I am a partner in the environmental practice group. My practice includes litigation, real estate and corporate transactional work, and regulatory compliance involving environmental matters with specialties in contaminated-site work and insurance coverage issues.

What drew you to this area of law, and what keeps it interesting?

I was drawn to environmental law because, since I was a child reading “50 Simple Things Kids Can Do to Save the Earth,” I’ve been interested in environmental issues. I also connected strongly with the folks in this practice area at my first firm. The people in the environmental group at my current firm are equally fantastic!

You have been involved with the ACC SoCal ACCess Internship program. What is the program, and how did you become involved?

The ACC SoCal ACCess Internship Program offers summer internships with ACC SoCal member company legal departments to first-year law students who have shown a commitment to increasing the representation of various backgrounds and identities within the legal profession or within their community. I became involved several years ago when looking for a way to contribute to the legal community, including both law students and in-house legal departments, in the Southern California area. My law firm helps sponsor the program and provides mentors, including myself, for each of the interns each summer.

Why do you believe this program matters?

I come from a low-income background, and I am the first person in my family to go to college, so I understand some of the barriers faced by first-generation college and law school graduates. So this program speaks to me on a personal level.

What is one memorable lesson, story, or success that has come out of your work with the ACCess Internship program?

One of my mentees a few years ago obtained a position with one of his dream law firms. It was exciting and gratifying to see him achieve that goal.

What advice would you give to students or newer lawyers trying to build their careers?

First, in addition to focusing on coursework, remain focused on building a professional network. Those connections will be invaluable as you move through your career. Second, beyond doing great work, nothing substitutes for responsiveness. Even if responding to an email to say, “I received your email and will get back to you later today,” always respond as soon as possible to more senior lawyers in the organization and especially to clients.

What is something about you that ACC members might be surprised to know?

I was born and raised in Texas and I’m a die-hard Texas Longhorns sports fan!

Is there anything else you would like ACC SoCal members to know about the ACCess Internship program?

It is a wonderful program and I hope it continues, and that Greenberg Glusker is able to support it, for many years to come.

Ricardo P. Cestero

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