Environmental Law Program
Alumni Profile: Erica Zilioli
Erica Zilioli (’06) is an Associate at Beveridge & Diamond, P.C. in Washington, D.C. She counsels clients on a variety of issues relating to product regulation, such as compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 and similar laws worldwide, as well as new regulatory developments in the expanding area of product safety. “It is extremely rewarding to be able to help clients comply with environmental laws and to know that the clients listen to and heed my advice.”
Erica also represents clients in litigation arising under a variety of environmental laws. She believes her experience clerking for the Honorable Richard D. Bennett of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland after law school prepared her to be a better litigator.
“The most important skill I learned in law school was to think critically, but the most important advice I got was that the key to being a good environmental lawyer is to first and foremost be an outstanding lawyer.” Erica believes that Maryland’s Environmental Law Program’s “strong curriculum,” proximity to Washington D.C. (“the environmental law center of the country”), and commitment “to helping students find internships and jobs both during and after law school” provide students a wealth of opportunity.
Erica advises students “to get involved in as many projects and activities outside the classroom as possible … grades are very important, but so are experiences interning, representing clients through clinic, and simply getting involved in the legal community.”
