Rasco Klock and ABL Strengthen International Legal Training Through the Secondment Program

This summer, Rasco Klock had the pleasure of hosting Milena Berjanovic from Miguérès Moulin, ABL’s Paris member firm, for a monthlong secondment in Miami. Through the ABL Secondment Program, Milena experienced firsthand the rhythm of cross-border legal practice and the collaborative environment that defines our firm.

A Month of Learning Across Practice Areas

Milena described her time at Rasco Klock as “a month that felt incredibly full and, at the same time, far too short given the richness of the experience.”
During her stay, she worked closely with attorneys across nearly every area of practice.

“In corporate work, particularly in taxation, mortgages, and bankruptcy, I learned under the guidance of Andrés Bazo, who acted not only as a supervisor but as a true mentor,” she said. “I also gained insight into immigration matters, which exposed me to profoundly human situations requiring both legal precision and empathy.”

She continued, “In litigation, I had the privilege of working closely with Alberto Orizondo and Ramón Rasco, whose rigorous approach challenged me on each project and encouraged me to sharpen my legal reasoning and analytical skills. In real estate, I collaborated mainly with Miguel de Castro and Irma Dewelde, discovering how property transactions are handled in the U.S. system.”

“Finally,” she added, “I discovered criminal law alongside Joseph Klock and Rachida Overby, with whom I had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a trial. Last but not least, I worked with Melissa Soy on trusts and wills.”

Inside the Courtroom

Milena described her participation in a criminal trial as the defining moment of her internship.
“The highlight of my internship was without doubt my participation in a criminal trial held at the Criminal Court of Justice of Florida,” she recalled. “This was not only thrilling but also transformative. Thanks to Joseph Klock and Rachida Overby, who welcomed me behind the scenes and guided me throughout, I was able to understand the inner workings of trial practice far beyond what one sees in the courtroom.”

She also reflected on one particular moment: “During the trial, I even had the opportunity to speak with the defendant himself. That exchange remains one of the most powerful moments of my internship, reminding me that behind every case there is a human being whose future depends on the quality of our work.”

The Office in Coral Gables: The Perfect Setting

Her experience was also shaped by the setting.
“Coral Gables, where the firm is located, was the perfect backdrop: a peaceful, elegant neighborhood that radiates professionalism and calm—a haven of balance in the heart of the city’s energy,” Milena shared.

“Miami is vibrant, fast-moving, multicultural, and dazzling. Living there as a young woman alone was a challenge, but also a revelation. The warmth of the people made it easy to adapt and build connections.”

Professional and Personal Growth

Milena also highlighted the unique environment she found at Rasco Klock.
“What impressed me most was the unique atmosphere at Rasco Klock,” she wrote. “The strong Latino presence within the firm added not only cultural richness but also warmth and generosity. I discovered a double dimension: the rigor and fast-paced rhythm of international legal work, combined with the kindness, familiarity, and openness of a Latin American spirit.”

Over the course of the month, she developed her professional skills and broadened her global perspective.
“I improved my research and drafting techniques, sharpened my legal reasoning, and developed a much stronger ability to adapt to different legal systems,” Milena reflected. “My legal English advanced significantly, and I even had the chance to practice Spanish. This experience confirmed that I want to pursue an international career in business law.”

The Human Dimension Makes It Extraordinary

Milena concluded, “I would wholeheartedly recommend the ABL Secondment Program. The professional learning is unparalleled, but it is the human dimension that makes it extraordinary. Everyone at Rasco Klock went out of their way to make me feel welcome and supported. Andrés Bazo, in particular, guided me as a mentor, ensuring that my internship was not only stimulating but also personally rewarding.”

About the ABL Secondment Program

Rasco Klock is proud to partner with ABL Global and Miguérès Moulin in this international initiative. The ABL Secondment Program connects law students and practicing lawyers across the network, giving them the opportunity to gain hands-on cross-border experience, strengthen legal skills, and build relationships that extend beyond borders.

According to ABL, placements have taken place in Chicago and Miami, with another currently underway in Washington, D.C., and new opportunities planned for Europe next year.

Read the original feature on ABL Global:
https://www.ablglobal.net/News/a-month-in-miami-how-the-abl-secondment-program-shaped-a-young-lawyers-career.html