Third Year Law Student Jeremy Innocent Banks Wants to Specialize in Torts, Civil rights, and Corporate law

Personal Life

Jeremy Innocent Banks is a third year law student at Birmingham School of Law and anticipates a May 2015 graduation. Although Jeremy has several areas of interest, he plans on practicing torts, civil rights, and corporate law. He will be the first person in his family to become an attorney.
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Jeremy was born in Eufaula, AL, and raised in Birmingham, AL. He grew up with his mother, three brothers, and two sisters. Jeremy explained:

"I was raised in a single parent home by my mom, which meant we didn't have much growing up and it was hard to learn my lessons because she was always at work, but I was able to get though it because of my mother's confidence that everything is going to be alright. I can remember her telling me that on many occasions. I was also a sick child with asthma, but I never let that stop me or used it as an excuse."

He graduated with a double B.A. in Political Science and History from Ouachita Baptist University in May 2011. Jeremy also earned his Associate's Degree in Pre Law from James H Faulkner State Community College. While studying at Ouachita Baptist University, Jeremy made the Dean's List during his sophomore, junior, and senior year. He was also captain of the men's basketball team throughout his collegiate career.

At Birmingham School of Law, Jeremy is a member of the Mock Trial Team. From 2012 to 2013, he served in Alabama Legal Services. Jeremy said, "With the high demand for the free services I was able to make a difference by handling my own cases, ultimately decreasing the work load."

When the Ouachita Baptist University alumnus isn't studying, he enjoys fishing with his family, cookouts and cooking general, basketball, watching karate pictures, working on his 1968 Ford Galaxy 500, and his Mock trials.

Jeremy's Academic Law Career and Future Aspirations

Why did Jeremy go into the law? "To help people, provide adequate living for the family I will have one day, and I love a good debate. I also love the competition with the high stakes."

He shared his aims and aspirations. "I aspire to be the President one day, that's why I picked Political Science as a major in college. My aim right now is to pass the bar, and to be successful with my own practice one day."

When asked about his key accomplishments, Jeremy claimed, "I am making good grades in Law School. I also earned three degrees and I am proud of making it this far."

He discussed his key strengths and skills that he would like to use to advance his
career goals. "I am a quick thinker and I am relatable. I use the Michael Jordan slogan that I have lived by since I saw the commercial, which is, 'Anything you can do, I can do better!'"

Are there any weaknesses Jeremy would like to work on? "Yes. I am working on not being a micro-manager and trusting each team member equally."
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Since law school can be hectic at times, Jeremy pointed out how he relieves stress. "I usually tell myself to calm down, relax, take a minute to get your thoughts together, and try your best."

Many readers are probably wondering how Jeremy handles new assignments. The third year law student shared his process: "I usually do a little research on it, I try to find a copy of how someone else completed the assignment before me, and if I'm still clueless I ask someone who has done it before me for guidance."

Where does he derive his confidence? "I derive my confidence from my family's belief in me, which makes me very confident in whatever I am doing."

Three Wishes to Live By, Coping with Fear, Coaching Basketball, and Favorite Quote

If Jeremy had three wishes, what would he wish for? "Being President of the U.S., an NBA player, and being the best lawyer in my field."

In regards to handling fear, he admitted, "I try to be as prepared as possible to delete any fear I might have."

Jeremy discussed his volunteer experience. He acknowledged, "I'm currently the coach at a basketball camp run by one of the greatest people I know (Bill Ivy). We teach a bunch of little six graders how to play the game of basketball, and it is amazing to see those little guys faces when they have succeed at something." In addition to teaching six graders how to play basketball, Mr. Ivy runs a basketball program called Birmingham Underground. This program gives high school students the opportunity to win scholarships and attend a four-year college or university. It also helps adults searching for a job.

His favorite quote is "That's the way the cookie crumbles." The quote resonates with Jeremy because whether you do well or bad in life, you just have to move on.

Personal Philosophy, People You Want to Surround Yourself With, Community Service and Final Thoughts

What is Jeremy's personal philosophy? "Treat others like you want to be treated."

The future attorney talked about what he believes holds more truth in light of his personal philosophy. Was it fate or choice? "Choice. I believe if you treat people how you would want to be treated then they will do the same."

What kind of situations and people is Jeremy attracted to? What kind of situations and people does he avoid? "I am attracted to competitive situations and funny people." As for situations and people to avoid, he noted, "I avoid bad situations and people who mean me no good."

Has Jeremy participated in community service? "I participated in every year in college for Tiger Day. On that day we go around the community to the elderly homes and do any yard work they need done."
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Is there anything else you care to share professionally or personally? "I will never stop believing in myself no matter what obstacles are laid in front of me."