Page 23 - Social Media Musings

Social Media Musings – Part III My Reflections on the Practice and Life
Professionalism
I do defense work. I had a case years ago where opposing counsel filed every motion and sought every sanction imaginable, all
of which were unwarranted. I was much younger and was overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. Since then, I’ve heard many other defense lawyers suffer the same actions I did at the hands of this attorney. Every few months, I get a message or call from a lawyer who is beside themselves dealing with this lawyer. I won’t mention their name. I won’t mention who this lawyer is. They are successful. They are wealthy. They try to intimidate and seek sanctions with impunity. They won’t change. I have two things to say. First, for those who deal with obstreperous, obnoxious, unscrupulous, hyper-aggressive counsel, it’s part of the maturation process. Second, if this attorney is reading this, which I doubt, because they are not one to listen to others nor read what they have to say, but if they are, know we reap what we sow in this world and everything you’ve done will catch up to you. And for all those who similarly misbehave, this piece of advice applies equally to you. Keep laughing to the bank. You won’t laugh forever. For me and mine, we always have and always will sleep soundly.
When a client, witness or guest is in your office, act like a host.
If you’re an associate, treat your boss like your client.
As some of us start heading back to our offices, be respectful of others’ personal space and concerns about disease spread. We all will need some to time to learn and navigate the new normal.
When communicating with others, appreciate that each of us hear through the prism of our individual lives, experiences, and perspectives.
Be cognizant, understanding, and professional when opposing counsel is dealing with a health or personal issue.
Deepen your relationship with others. Make a point to e-mail, message, text or write them a handwritten note periodically. Congratulate them on promotions, wins and milestones. Lend an ear and do more listening than talking.
The more you give away, the more you will receive in return.
People are in our lives for a reason. Think through how you can make connections between individuals you know. Each of us has the potential to connect individuals who would never meet, and would never benefit from meeting, but for us.
Befriend other lawyers who help you develop your talents and help them develop theirs
Lawyers are trained to be poor listeners. Many of us were trained to listen to win,
©2021 Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel
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