Meet the LL.M. Class: Laddawan Loungard of Thailand  

Meet Laddawan Loungard of Bangkok, Thailand, who serves as vice presiding judge of Lom Sak Provincial Court. She is seeking the added legal expertise of a Minnesota Law LL.M. Judge Loungard is particularly interested in deepening her exposure to human rights law and international law at the Law School.

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Could you discuss a little about your work as vice presiding judge? 

My primary responsibility is to hear and decide civil and criminal cases within The Lom Sak Provincial Court’s jurisdiction and fulfill other tasks assigned by the court's chief judge, such as offering legal experience as a guest speaker to law students or the general public.

What are a few opportunities and challenges of being a lawyer in Thailand?

Thai lawyers have opportunities to work in new disputes resulting from cutting-edge technologies such as electronic transactions. It is their challenge to comprehend the new laws fluently and effectively while maintaining the identity of creating social justice, which is an essential aspect of being a lawyer.

What is your professional goal in enrolling in an LL.M. Program?

After completing the LLM program, I will be back to work as a judge in Thailand. The knowledge and experience I will gain from study and research will undoubtedly help me to serve my country and the court of justice of Thailand in the future as well.

Why did you select Minnesota Law as the place to get your LL.M.?

Minnesota Law provides various concentrations such as human rights law and international law. The best part is that Minnesota law has a third semester for students to extend and may earn a different concentration. Minnesota law also has a LEAD program to prepare for a better understanding of the legal course.

Minnesota Law is a place known for putting an emphasis on leadership. What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership is the ability to encourage others to work with confidence and enthusiasm to achieve the goals of the organization. Good leaders should be good listeners so they can figure out other people's problems and how to solve them.

What are your hobbies/interests?

I like meditating; meditation helps me reduce negative emotions, increase my imagination and creativity.

How do you plan to spend your free time in Minnesota/ the United States?

Walking along the Mississippi River trail, looking for volunteer jobs, and visiting other areas such as Chicago and New York.

What three words best describe you?

Inspired, persistent, passionate.

What are you most looking forward to in your time at Minnesota Law?

Meeting new people, learning new things, and sharing my experience.