St. Lucie West Centennial High School Criminal Justice Students Participate in Legal Clinic

Angela Baumgarten’s Certified Legal Assistant students at SLW Centennial HS recently attended the third session of the Legal Assistants Clinic at the Rupert J. Smith Law Library on February 18, 2026. The experience offered students valuable, real-world insight into the legal profession and the expectations of today’s employers. Guest speakers included Law Librarian Carmela Gallese, Attorney Ashley Minton, and Attorney George Metcalfe, who shared practical advice on interviewing, workplace professionalism, and the essential skills employers seek in legal assistants. Speakers also highlighted the unique strengths young professionals bring to the field, including adaptability, fresh perspectives, and comfort with emerging technologies. A timely discussion on the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the practice of law encouraged students to think critically about the future of the legal industry.