Law Clinic Announces Danielle Sanger as Ungerman Award Recipient
Danielle Sanger is the Summer/Fall 2009 recipient of the Irvine E. Ungerman Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice. This award was established to honor one of our outstanding alumni, Irvine E. Ungerman, '30, who practiced law in Tulsa, Oklahoma until he died in 1980. The award is given twice yearly to a student who has distinguished him/herself by providing highly competent representation to clients in a manner exemplifying the ideals of our profession and spirit of public service. The award includes a cash prize.
Danielle worked under the supervision of Associate Professor Lynette Petty representing clients in domestic matters and serving as guardian ad litem in the child in need of care court. Danielle’s caseload was composed of complex cases that would have challenged any seasoned attorney. She developed advocacy and counseling skills over her two semesters in the clinic that place her well beyond the level of experience typical of a new attorney.
Danielle is particularly adept at client counseling. She listens to her clients as they tell their stories and takes time to understand their concerns and goals. From there, she works with the clients to help them shape their own strategies and build skills that will enable them to achieve their goals and improve their situations long after the cases have been closed.
As a directed intern, Danielle had the opportunity to take one of her most difficult cases to trial after prolonged negotiations with opposing counsel did not bring a settlement. It was her skill in working with the client that made the difference. She took the client from an untenable position to one of reason. In so doing, the court found the client’s proposal to be centered on the child and ruled in our client’s favor. After the hearing, the judge made a point to stop Danielle in the hall and commend her for her strong and effective advocacy skills.
Danielle Sanger is ready to practice law. Congratulations to Danielle for her outstanding work in the Clinic.
Posted November 17, 2009.
