Webinar looks at 'How to Respond to Uncivil and Unprofessional Conduct'

American Law Institute Continuing Legal Education in collaboration with the College of Labor and Employment Lawyers will present the webcast “Lawyers Behaving Badly: How to Respond to Uncivil and Unprofessional Conduct” on Friday, March 11, from noon to 1 p.m.

Society holds lawyers to a higher standard than an average citizen, as reflected in ethics rules and lawyer disciplinary process. Yet despite these expectations, today people are witnessing a rise in lawyer incivility. Tensions between advocacy and civility, plus misconceptions about the lawyer’s role, make it a challenge for some lawyers to balance their obligations for strong representation with expectations of professionalism. Some lawyers have reputations for repeatedly engaging in questionable behavior; others become overzealous and ignore the guardrails.

In this climate, how should attorneys respond when confronted with uncivil and unprofessional conduct of other lawyers? What are attorneys’ practical options and professional obligations?

This timely program helps participants learn first-hand how to deal with an opponent engaging in uncivil behavior that crosses the professional line.

Using a series of video vignettes illustrating real-world situations, the experienced panel—including a federal judge, respected practitioners, and a behavioral science expert—will share their personal experiences and practical recommendations on:

  • Anticipating and preparing to deal with an opponent known engage in uncivil behavior
  • Best practices in responding to uncivil conduct
  • Seeking sanctions for uncivil or unprofessional conduct
  • Understanding what judges want in support of a motion for sanctions
  • The potential consequences for uncivil behavior
  • Gender bias as unprofessional conduct
  • Maintaining the support of your client in responding to uncivil behavior

All registrants will receive a set of downloadable course materials to accompany the program.

Cost for the webcast is $199. To register, visit www.ali-cle.org.