Why did you choose to take a pro bono case with DRM?
Taking a pro bono case offers a chance to collaborate with colleagues outside my usual circles. Working with diverse groups within Sidley Austin LLP has been particularly rewarding. It allows me to contribute my expertise while learning from others in different practices – like healthcare, securities, and litigation. It’s an opportunity to broaden my professional network while making a meaningful difference.
How has your pro bono work with DRM impacted you?
Working with DRM has been an eye-opening experience, especially coming from the West Coast. I assumed DRM worked primarily in Baltimore because that’s where the office is, but some of the communities that I’ve been working with most closely are right next to where I live in D.C.. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the diverse communities in Maryland and the socio-economic landscape of the region. It’s helped me integrate into my new surroundings.
What’s it like collaborating with DRM on cases?
Sidley Austin LLP and DRM complement each other well. We come with a specialized skill set and DRM comes with the subject matter expertise. For example, as we design our case, DRM can tell us the strategic things that we should be aware of. While we could spend hours conducting case law research, they can quickly pinpoint key factors and relevant precedents in disability law. That makes the work go so much faster and easier. That’s been pretty fantastic.
What would you say to others who are considering volunteering with DRM?
I was nervous to start working on this case because my background wasn’t in the substantive underlying areas of law. But you don’t need to be an expert to contribute significantly.
Also, in my experience, it’s been fairly easy to make a pretty big impact with not that many hours. There’s been some very discreet, easily tackleable, and fascinating legal questions. Just having somebody spend 10 dedicated hours diving through every aspect of the legal question and then bringing the results back to the DRM team can make a world of difference.
Anything else you would like to add?
The cases that DRM takes can be pretty heart wrenching. It’s emotionally taxing at times, but it feels good at the end of the day when I’ve spent a chunk of my time working on something that I know is going to have an immediate and tangible impact for somebody. I’ve developed a profound respect for the DRM attorneys who navigate these challenging situations daily. Their dedication inspires me professionally and personally.
About Cayla
Cayla Calderwood, Managing Associate at Sidley Austin LLP, is an accomplished lawyer with significant experience navigating complex legal landscapes and achieving favorable outcomes in high-stakes litigation. Cayla focuses her practice on litigating complex matters in federal courts across the United States, including alleged violations of the U.S. Clean Air Act, enforcement of international arbitration awards, prosecuting disputes related to project financing, and coordinating complex e-discovery issues. Known for her meticulous approach, Cayla has experience developing legal claims, drafting and filing initial proceedings, conducting in-depth research, and skillfully drafting motions. Her experience extends to leading complex document discovery, coordinating with expert witnesses, negotiating with opposing counsel, and advising clients on trial risks.
Learn more on Sidley Austin LLP’s website (link opens to external webpage).
