Meet 2026 Summer Associate Dominique Frederick

Ward and Smith’s 2026 Summer Associate Program is underway, with seven law students working across our offices and getting a true feel for life at a full-service firm. This summer, they’ll grow as legal professionals. Get to know each of them in our “Meet the Summer Associate” series.

Next in the series is Dominique Frederick.

Hometown: Albany, NY

School: Campbell University School of Law, 3L

Would you like to share something about your family?
My family consists of my partner and me, my 10-month-old daughter, my 10-year-old stepdaughter, our dog, two cats, and beta fish! Fun fact – my partner and beta fish are the only boys in the family!

What do you like to do in your downtime when you’re not studying?
Long walks, hiking, hot yoga, and spending time with my family

What is your favorite movie?
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Sage with Will Ferrell and Rachael McAdams. It is hilarious and has amazing songs!

What is your favorite book?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It’s a short read, but it has incredible meaning about following the signs from the universe as one pursues their life’s destiny.

What is your favorite food?
Chocolate chip cookies

Where is your favorite vacation spot?
I love to alternate between the mountains and the beach.

Why do you want to be an attorney?
I have always been drawn to the law and discovered early on that I have a natural aptitude for advocacy and problem-solving. Pursuing a legal career allows me to meaningfully apply my prior experiences and interests in a way that challenges me intellectually while making an impact in service to others. As a first-generation lawyer, I am also deeply motivated to build a legacy for my family and pave the way for future generations.

What is the hardest part of law school?
Trying to make time to do it all while also doing it well.

What are you most excited to learn during your time here at Ward and Smith?
How to apply my legal education and background to the real-world problems that clients are facing.

What’s the best advice someone has given you?
Be authentically you in everything you do.

Describe yourself in three words.
Nurturing, driven, and eclectic