The Massachusetts Bar Association's Lawyer Well-Being Committee and Judicial Administration Section, in collaboration with Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys, the Middlesex County Bar Association and Michael A. Sullivan, clerk of courts for Middlesex County, are thrilled to present this in-person program focusing on enhancing attorney well-being and civility.
This program will provide an in-depth exploration of strategies for improving both civility and well-being in the legal profession. Through engaging discussions between judges, lawyers and the audience, the session will focus on best practices for enhancing professional interactions and fostering a respectful legal environment.
Topics will include lawyer well-being generally, the useful impact of mindfulness, practical strategies for managing discovery disputes, handling difficult opposing counsel, and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations. This program is designed to assist practitioners across all areas of practice and court locations.
The civility panel will explore strategies to maintain resilience and balance in legal practice along with methods to improve civility.
- Judges will share insights into common lawyer behaviors that frustrate them, offering alternative approaches to avoid these pitfalls.
- Lawyers from several practice areas will discuss frustrations with judges and suggest strategies to improve the courtroom experience. They will cover how to manage bullying tactics from opposing counsel while maintaining professionalism under pressure.
- Judges will address how they handle situations involving bullying in the courtroom, as well as how lawyers should respond when confronted with bullying by opposing counsel or unfair treatment by a judge.
- Civil plaintiffs’ and defense lawyers and criminal lawyers will explore common sources of frustration between the two sides and suggest alternative approaches to resolve conflicts more effectively.
- General counsel for the Board of Bar Overseers will explain the legal requirements and repercussions relating to civility and professionalism for all practicing attorneys.
The program will highlight strategies for staying calm and focused in challenging courtroom situations. At the end of this session, participants will leave with practical tools for navigating complex courtroom dynamics, enhancing civility, and promoting their own well-being as legal professionals.
This program has been approved by CPCS for 2 credits for the Criminal Trial Panel.
A networking reception will follow the program. This program is free to the legal community.
Enhancing Well-Being and Civility: A Guide to Best Practices
in Massachusetts Courts
Thursday, March 6, 3-5 p.m.
Middlesex Superior Court, 200 Trade Center, Woburn
Click here to register.
This program will be hosted in person at the Middlesex Superior Court, 200 Trade Center, Woburn. Registration is required by noon on Wednesday, March 5, in order to participate in the program.