Rachal Cassagne

Judicial Law Clerk - Eastern District of Louisiana

 

BRBA: Tell us about your education. 

I have a B.A. in English from LSU Shreveport, a M.A. in Literary Studies from University of Amsterdam, and a J.D. from Southern University Law Center.

 

BRBA: Where are you from?

Bossier City

 

BRBA: Where and what type of law do you practice?

I am a law clerk for Judge Guidry in the Eastern District of Louisiana.

 

BRBA: Why did you want to become an attorney?

My parents convinced me to become an attorney. For career day in elementary school, my mom encouraged me to “dress up” like an attorney. When I changed my mind briefly announcing my interest in becoming a hairstylist, she reassured me that becoming an attorney would be a better fit for me.

 

BRBA: If you were not practicing law, what would be your alternate profession? 

I think I would have loved going to medical school or becoming a journalist.

 

BRBA: What is one thing you wish you would have known before you went to law school?

Law school is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. I wish I had spent a little more time enjoying the experience.

 

BRBA: Are you involved with the BRBA? If so, how?

Yes. I am on the Belly up with the Bar Committee, and I participate with the annual Holiday Star and Easter events.

 

BRBA: What motivated you to become involved with the BRBA?

The BRBA does a great job providing services and resources for attorneys and has several successful programs that give back to community. I love spending time with other members of the BRBA, and I have made invaluable relationships by working on the Belly up Committee.

 

BRBA: What is your favorite BRBA activity or event?

Belly up. Friday, September 27^th. See you there!

 

BRBA: Are you involved with any other organizations or causes? 

I am one of the District 5 representatives for the Young Lawyer’s Division Council with the Louisiana State Bar Association, an observer with the Louisiana State Law Institute, and a member of Junior League Baton Rouge.

 

BRBA: What is the best piece of advice you have received?

Learn the reason for the rule. When choosing a life partner, look for a team player. Always wash from top to bottom. – My dad

 

BRBA: What are your leisure activities?

Fishing, travelling, running, and, most importantly, playing with my sweet golden retriever, Jessie

 

BRBA: What is the last book that you read?

I have to admit, I have not done much reading for leisure since becoming an attorney given the amount of reading done on the job.

 

BRBA: Tell us something interesting about yourself.

In 2011, I spent my summer in Kabul, Afghanistan teaching debate to university students with a non-profit organization, Afghans for Progressive Thinking. The experience was beyond rewarding.

If you would like to contact Rachal, her email address is Rachal_Cassagne@laed.uscourts.gov.

For more information or to comment on this this Member Spotlight feature, contact Landon Hester at landon@brba.org or 225-214-5560.