Law student continues work as a clerk at his father's firm

By Sheila Pursglove
Legal News

Ahmed Elsharnoby didn't plan to study law-with an undergrad degree is in marketing and management his original career goal was to work in the business industry.

"I never considered becoming a lawyer-my intention was to work temporarily in my father's law firm until I get another job," he says. "After working in the firm for a couple of months, I really enjoyed the work and can't imagine myself doing anything else except being a lawyer."

Now a 1L student at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law with a particular interest in immigration law, family law and personal injury, Elsharnoby is continuing to work as a law clerk at Elsharnoby & Associates, his father Mohamed Elsharnoby's firm that has offices in Dearborn, Sterling Heights, and Houston.

"I enjoy handling different type of cases and learning new fields of law," Elsharnoby says. "My father taught me the basics of the law and it really helped me think like lawyer. Without his support, I wouldn't have been that passionate to practice law like I am right now. I handle mostly immigration cases and I enjoy uniting families."

The experience also has helped his legal studies, teaching him basic terminologies that helped him better understand law school material. He enjoys the "big family" feel of Detroit Mercy Law, making his choice of law school easy.

"The professors are committed to give us the best law school experience and to making us ready to implement our knowledge in the real world," he says.

When the pandemic hit and classes became remote learning, Elsharnoby did not think he would be able to handle the online challenge.

"I never chose to take an online class during my undergrad years because I prefer in-class lectures," he says. "With the help of the professors, it was a smooth transition. They knew how hard it is to cope, but they did a phenomenal job transitioning to online learning and helping us adapt to the changes."

Born and raised in Cairo, Egypt, Elsharnoby now makes his home in Bloomfield Hills, and is a member of the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce.

In his leisure time, he enjoys playing the piano, and spending time with family and friends.

"My family supported me through every step I chose to take, and they're the reason I'm where I am right now," he says.

He also is a big fan of the Motor City.

"I was a Wayne State student since 2015 so I saw every improvement in the downtown area, and it was very exciting to experience the Detroit transition," he says.