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Joi Siler King's professional journey at Drew Eckl & Farnham, LLP is a testament to her dedication, skill, and rapid progression within the legal field. Early Engagement and Academic Excellence Joi began her association with DEF in June 2020 as a Summer Associate. She earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Georgia School of Law in 2021, where she honed her leadership and advocacy skills. During her time there, she served as Treasurer of the Davenport-Benham Black Law Student Association and moot court, was on the Executive Board of Dean’s Ambassadors, and was a pupil of the Henry Joseph Lumpkin Inn of Court. Her accolades include the Outstanding Moot Court Advocate award ... Continue Reading

J. Benson Ward’s impressive journey at Drew Eckl & Farnham shows how talent, hard work, and dedication can lead to becoming an equity partner as well as a trusted leader in the legal community. A Strong Foundation Benson’s legal career began after seven years at the University of Georgia, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in 2002 and receiving his JD from the Law School in 2005. Joining DEF In 2004, Benson joined DEF as a summer associate, gaining valuable experience that laid the groundwork for his future at the firm. He transitioned to a full-time associate role in August 2005, where he began focusing on insurance defense litigation, cutting his teeth on workers’ ... Continue Reading

Meet Lane Hammond, one of our standout Summer Associates bringing curiosity, drive, and a sharp legal mind to DEF this season. A rising third-year law student with a passion for legal writing and a goal of mastering motions practice, Lane has already impressed us with her thoughtful approach and eagerness to learn. Whether she’s drafting persuasive arguments or tackling early morning study sessions, Lane brings intentionality and authenticity to everything she does—and we’re excited to have her on the team this summer. What’s been your favorite part of law school so far?"Though it might be an unpopular opinion, my favorite part of law school has been the writing assignments. I’ve ... Continue Reading

As part of this year’s dynamic DEF Summer Associate class, Katie Swoboda is bringing curiosity, creativity, and a deep appreciation for collaborative learning to the team. With a background in education and a love for problem-solving, Katie is excited to soak up all aspects of litigation. Whether it’s through early-morning focus sessions or mock negotiations, she’s already showing the thoughtfulness and energy that make her a great fit for DEF. What’s been your favorite part of law school so far?"The Drafting and Negotiations Winter Intersession. I had a lot of fun working with new people and facing new challenges. I especially liked participating in mock negotiations." Katie thrives ... Continue Reading

At Drew Eckl & Farnham, our summer associates are more than just future attorneys — they’re an integral part of our firm culture. We’re especially excited to welcome back Catalina Buchek for her second summer with us. Known for her leadership, energy, and passion for community, Catalina brings both heart and drive to everything she does. We caught up with her for a quick Q&A to learn more about what inspires her, what she’s looking forward to this summer, and a few fun facts you won’t find on her résumé. Her answers were thoughtful, engaging, and a perfect reflection of why we’re so glad to have her on the team. What’s been your favorite part of law school so far?“Being part of ... Continue Reading

At Drew Eckl & Farnham, our summer associates are more than just future attorneys — they bring unique perspectives, talents, and energy that enrich our firm culture. This week, we’re excited to introduce Kennedy Freeman, a standout law student who’s passionate about community, growth, and maybe even a little competitive puzzle-solving. We sat down with Kennedy to learn more about her law school journey, goals for the summer, and a fun fact you probably didn’t see coming. What’s been your favorite part of law school so far?“My favorite part of law school has been my experiences with our BLSA Chapter. We are a family and I would not survive law school without them.”Kennedy’s deep ... Continue Reading

Summer associate programs are a vital part of our firm’s culture, giving rising legal talents the chance to learn, grow, and experience real-world litigation. This summer, we sat down with one of our newest summer associates: Addison Hogan to hear about her law school journey, why she chose to join Drew Eckl & Farnham, and what fun surprises she brings beyond the courtroom. What’s been your favorite part of law school so far?“My developing appreciation for espresso.”Whether it’s those late-night study sessions or early-morning case reviews, it sounds like a good cup of espresso has become an essential part of the law school grind! Why did you choose to spend your summer at DEF?“I ... Continue Reading

We are thrilled to welcome our 2025 Summer Associate Class to Drew Eckl & Farnham! Each summer, we look forward to this opportunity to mentor the next generation of attorneys, and this year’s group brings exceptional talent, fresh perspectives, and a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Addison Hogan Addison joins us this summer as a rising 3L from Georgia State University College of Law. Prior to joining law school, she worked as a legal assistant for Kennedy, Nalepa & Soloway, P.C. (formerly known as Frazier, Soloway and Kennedy, P.C.). Her hidden skill is mixology, and her hobbies include reading, yoga, and pottery. Her most prized possession is a Brock Bowers' signed LV ... Continue Reading

Hunter Garrett's journey at Drew Eckl & Farnham, LLP exemplifies a trajectory marked by dedication and rapid professional growth. Early Engagement and Academic Foundation Hunter's association with DEF began in May 2019 when he joined as a summer associate. This early exposure provided him with invaluable insights into the firm's operations and culture. He earned his Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law in 2020, following a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, cum laude, from the University of Georgia in 2016. Progression to Associate and Notable Contributions After successfully passing the bar exam, Hunter commenced his role as a full-time associate at ... Continue Reading