Mock trials develop into law career for Ryberg

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Eric Ryberg prepared for his role as a litigator early in life.

He began participating in mock trial programs during his freshman year of high school. His involvement with mock trial programs continued through college and law school.

“It helped get me my job here,” Ryberg said, noting that one of his coaches was a partner at Habush Habush & Rottier SC, where he has now worked for the past five years.

In turn Ryberg, 30, has offered his help to mock trial students at the University of Wisconsin Law School, coaching teams the past few semesters. Prior to that, he worked as an adjunct professor at the law school, teaching a trial advocacy course for mock trial students.

With a father who is a lawyer and a brother who went to law school, Ryberg has followed in the family tradition.

However, he is quick to note that he never felt he was expected to follow that path.

“It was my decision; my dad never pressured me or even said he wanted me to go into the law,” Ryberg said. “Of course, he was encouraging, but I never felt that I had to. It was something I enjoyed doing.”

Now he has a caseload of nearly 100 files, involving personal injury claims where he has been able to use those skills honed through years of mock trial practice.

— Tony Anderson

What was your most useful law school course?

Trial advocacy and pre-trial advocacy. Both were very practical courses that taught the basics of what a trial lawyer does and allowed you to learn by doing.

What is the best part of being an attorney?

Being able to stand in front of a jury and argue a case on behalf of an injured victim of someone else’s negligence.

What song is on heavy rotation on your iPod?

“The Cave” by Mumford & Sons

What would you never wear?

Gophers shirt

What was your favorite toy as a child?

G.I. Joes

If you could be a superhero, who would you be?

Buzz Lightyear, my 2-year-old son’s favorite superhero

What famous person you would most like to have a drink with?

Andre Agassi, my favorite athlete when I was growing up

What trait do you most like in others?

Empathy

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Enjoying a Badger football victory with friends in Madison on a perfect October day

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

“It depends” and “We’ll see”

Who are your favorite writers?

Bill Simmons