Disorder in The Court: The Crossroads of Incivility and Wellness in the Legal Profession

Abrasive or burned out? Overworked or uncivil? Zealous advocate or bully?

The legal profession is currently navigating a critical crossroads where the traditional, often adversarial culture of lawyering meets an urgent need for practitioner well-being. Based on recent reports, it is widely believed that civility in the legal profession is under severe strain, with many arguing it is in critical condition. While not entirely dead, the standard of courteous, professional behavior is facing unprecedented challenges from rising polarization, digital communication, and a “win-at-all-costs” mentality.

Evidence shows that incivility—ranging from bullying and excessive, unreasonable demands to routine discourtesy—is directly linked to substance misuse, burnout, anxiety, and depression, issues which lawyers andare already experiencing at significantly higher rates than the general population.

Mr. Quinn will discuss:

1. The link between incivility and poor wellness, with emphasis on stress and burnout in the legal profession.
2. How uncivil conduct can be confused with “zealous” representation.
3. Ethical issues created by incivility, including violations of Rules 3.3 (Candor Toward the Tribunal), 3.4 (Fairness to Opposing Party and Counsel) and Rule 3.5 (Impartiality and Decorum of the Tribunal).
4. A “master plan” for addressing mental health challenges facing lawyers.
5. Initiatives that can be developed on an individual, firm and cultural level to support wellness and reduce uncivil conduct.
6. How to access the free, confidential resources offered by Lawyer Assistance Programs.

Speaker: Brian Quinn