Studying at Creighton University School of Law, Abigail Hayes is a Law Ambassador for the Class of 2026, a 2L representative of the Black Law Student Association, and a part of the Youth Justice Legal Society.
Abigail completed her undergraduate studies at Liberty University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree, cum laude, and majoring in Strategic Communications. She earned the title of Miss Oregon 2021 and finished 4th runner-up to Miss America. Abigail spent her year of service as Miss Oregon focusing on the social impact initiative “Generation Next: Equity for the Underserved.”
Q: Before this summer, what area(s) of law were you most interested in practicing? Describe how your interests changed or strengthened during your time as a Summer Associate.
A: Before beginning at Fraser this summer, my primary interest in law was in litigation. My goal has always remained to advocate for individuals and provide a voice to the voiceless. However, this summer, I discovered that transactional work provides an equally compelling voice for the voiceless as litigation. While working with the distinguished transactional attorneys at Fraser Stryker, I have come to appreciate the excitement, challenge, and impact of transactional law. While my interest has grown in transactional work, my desire to litigate furthers with each visit to the courthouse, hearing, and deposition I attend.
Q: What was something you experienced this summer that really surprised you?
A: The emphasis on work-life balance and mental health at Fraser Stryker is an exception within the legal field. I was pleasantly surprised by the genuine care, intentionality, and investment Fraser Stryker and its attorneys extend to each another and to the community, all while consistently providing top-tier legal services to their clients.
Q: Explain a specific moment this summer that made you look at a case, project, or practice area in a different way than you had before.
A: During a client deposition preparation meeting, the client became emotional as she shared her near-death experience. This moment offered new insights into a case I had previously worked on and revealed information I hadn’t known before. It reminded me that each client is much more than their case number. This experience highlighted the trust our community places in Fraser Stryker’s attorneys, who provide a safe space for clients to express their vulnerabilities during their toughest times.
About the Fraser Stryker Summer Associate Program
The Summer Associate Program is structured to give summer associates a realistic experience, which is comparable to that of a first-year attorney. Visit the Fraser Stryker Summer Associate Program page to learn more about our program.
This article has been prepared for general information purposes and (1) does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship, (2) is not intended as a solicitation, (3) is not intended to convey or constitute legal advice, and (4) is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a qualified attorney. Always seek professional counsel prior to taking action.