Eric N. Assouline, J.D. ’96, is a distinguished business and bankruptcy litigation partner and co-founder of Assouline & Berlowe. He has extensive experience in handling all forms of business law matters, in Florida and in other states, representing a broad range of clients from local Florida individuals and entities to international parties. During his time at the University of Miami School of Law, he excelled as a member of the University of Miami Law Review and the Charles C. Papy, Jr. Moot Court Board. He has fostered a deep connection with the Miami Law community, serving on the Law Alumni Association Board of Directors for 15 years. A committed alumnus, Assouline has ensured that his firm remains a stronghold for Miami Law talent, with nearly half of its attorneys being fellow Hurricanes.
What aspects of the curriculum or faculty had the most significant impact on your legal education and career trajectory?
Two primary experiences at UM Law shaped my trajectory. Most prominently, the Litigation Skills program was instrumental in solidifying my lifelong interest in business and bankruptcy litigation. I still vividly recall the critiques provided by the faculty of judges and practitioners; earning a "High A" in the Trial portion remains a point of pride. I believe it is a must-take for any aspiring litigator. Secondly, Moot Court competitions opened my eyes to the practical complexities of appellate work. Competing through multiple rounds required a level of concentration I had never previously experienced. Reaching the final round was easily one of the most fulfilling experiences of my law school career.
How did your education at the University of Miami School of Law prepare you for your career?
My education provided a foundation of precision and practical strategy. Serving on the Law Review taught me to read case law with extreme scrutiny; the rigorous process of double-checking citations instilled a habit of "copious precision" that I apply to every court filing today. Additionally, clinical courses like Negotiation Skills, taught by the late Joseph Harbaugh, provided me with specific mediation techniques that I still utilize in my current practice. These programs, combined with the Litigation Skills curriculum, ensured I entered the profession with the technical proficiency and the tactical mindset necessary to succeed as a litigation attorney.
What opportunities or connections did you gain at the law school, and how did they influence your career?
The connections made at UM Law have had an enormous impact. I maintain close friendships with classmates and have continuously expanded my network through the Law Alumni Association, where I have served as a director for 15 years. This community influenced my career so deeply that I co-founded my firm with a fellow graduate, Peter Berlowe. Today, 8 of our 17 lawyers hold UM Law degrees. We are proud to continue the tradition of hiring Miami Law graduates whenever possible, as I am constantly impressed by the quality of students the school produces. Supporting this community for the last 29 years has been a highlight of my professional life.
