Today’s interview is with Laura Baitz, a foreign law intern working with Foreign Law Specialist Jenny Gesley in the Global Legal Research Directorate of the Law Library of Congress.
Describe your background.
I grew up in a town near Cologne, one of Germany’s most populous cities, best known for its cathedral (Kölner Dom) and the Cologne Carnival. The carnival in Cologne is a centuries-old tradition where people dress up in funny costumes, listen to local carnival music, and celebrate for almost an entire week. It is also referred to as the “fifth season.” Originally, the costumes served as disguises to protect against evil spirits. If you are in Cologne during carnival season, you can hardly escape the so-called “Jecken” (the carnival revellers), as the whole city joins in the festivities. Because the atmosphere is fantastic and I really enjoy dancing, I could never skip a carnival season. That is why I consider myself a “Jeck” as well.
What is your academic/professional history?
I studied at the University of Bonn and the University of Cologne, where I passed the First German State Examination in law (equivalent to a juris doctorate degree in the United States), with a specialization in competition in intellectual property law. As a first-generation academic, pursuing a career in law required a lot of independence and persistence, which drove me to gain practical experience early on. After graduation, I worked at a major international law firm with a focus on patent litigation.
Currently, I am completing my legal traineeship (Referendariat) at the Higher Regional Court of Cologne, which will qualify me to practice law in Germany. As part of the two-year program, I have worked at a civil chamber of the court and at the local public prosecutor’s office. My internship at the Law Library of Congress is another part of the program.
How would you describe your job to other people?
As a foreign law intern, I assist in addressing legal inquiries regarding German-speaking jurisdictions and European Union law from members of Congress, executive agencies, courts, and the public. My daily work involves conducting legal research and preparing detailed reports or writing articles for the Global Legal Monitor, in which the Law Library provides information on significant legal developments in foreign jurisdictions.
Why did you want to work at the Law Library of Congress?
Ever since I had my first English lesson in elementary school, I have been deeply fascinated by the United States and the power of language to connect people from different cultures. It was a long-held wish of mine to move abroad and finally experience this firsthand. Professionally, the Law Library of Congress offers a unique environment for conducting legal research. Working in the Global Legal Research Directorate allows me to sharpen my comparative research and writing skills in a vast array of legal fields and jurisdictions. Contributing to such a world-renowned institution is an incredible opportunity that will significantly shape my future career.
What is the most interesting fact you have learned about the Law Library of Congress?
The Capitol Hill underground network still surprises me every day. The Law Library and many congressional buildings in Washington, D.C. are connected by a unique tunnel system that allows staffers and members of Congress to safely travel between the buildings regardless of the weather. You will also find numerous amenities there, and it even has its own little subway system.
What’s something most of your co-workers do not know about you?
Law was actually not my first choice. I initially started my academic journey studying media technology at TH Köln, because I have always been interested in the scientific background of technologies. However, I quickly realized how much I missed working with texts and language, which ultimately led me to study law. Finding myself now working at the world’s largest library while being surrounded by millions of books and legal texts feels like the perfect full-circle moment.
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