KU Law student continues his lifelong dedication to learning

For Alec Nee, the path to a legal career has been shaped by both a commitment to growth and a clear vision for the future. Originally from Lee's Summit, Missouri, Nee began his academic journey at Missouri State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in finance. But it was his decision to pursue a Juris Doctor at KU Law that set the course for the career he is now poised to begin.

Nee chose KU Law not only for its academic reputation, but for its proximity to Kansas City, where he and his wife plan to build their lives and early careers. The connection to the Kansas City legal market, combined with the opportunity to immerse himself in the KU community — complete with game days at Allen Fieldhouse — made the decision an easy one for Nee.

During his time at KU Law, Nee built an impressive record of involvement. He served as a staff editor and later a comments editor for the Kansas Law Review, sharpening his legal research and writing skills. He also distinguished himself as a Shook, Hardy & Bacon Advocate and member of the Moot Court Council, competing in two national moot court competitions. In addition, Nee was a member of the Mock Trial Team, where he competed in the Queens District Attorney's Office Mock Trial Competition. Last, but certainly not least, Nee served on the KU Court of Parking Appeals as both a prosecutor and a judge.

Of these experiences, moot court proved to be the most transformative for Nee. Under the guidance of faculty mentors and coaches, including Professor Pamela Keller, Nee developed the ability to translate dense legal briefs into clear, persuasive oral arguments. It’s a skill he views as foundational to his future as a litigator and one that reflects both discipline and adaptability.

Nee also credits his coursework with shaping his legal perspective. Having taken every class offered by Professor Laura Hines, he points to Complex Litigation and Jurisdiction as particularly impactful. These courses challenged him to think critically about the structure and function of the legal system, further reinforcing his interest in litigation.

While academics were central to his law school experience, Nee’s favorite memory is more personal: celebrating the conclusion of the QDA Mock Trial Competition by exploring New York City with teammates and mentors. The trip, shared with fellow KU Law students Ben DeKoning, Mason Hernandez and Alex Nelson, along with Professor Adam Sokoloff, stands out as a moment of camaraderie and accomplishment.

As he prepares to graduate, Nee reflects on how KU Law has equipped him for the next stage of his career. More than any single skill, he says, law school has taught him how to embrace the challenge of continuous learning and step beyond his comfort zone.

Following graduation and the bar exam, Nee will clerk for Senior Judge Julie A. Robinson at the United States District Court for the District of Kansas. The opportunity, he says, represents a chance to refine his legal writing and research while learning how to litigate with efficiency and respect for the law from a seasoned member of the judiciary.

For Nee, the decision to pursue law has always been about more than a career but, instead, a lifelong commitment to intellectual growth. 

“I chose to study law because it opens the door to a rigorous career of learning that can never truly be mastered,” he said. “I am most excited about waking up every day to a new challenge to resolve and another opportunity to learn from the outstanding and impressive individuals in the legal community.”

-By Casey Bacot