President’s Perspective
Civility: A Cornerstone to Diversity and Access to Justice
When we talk about civility, we often think of it as being respectful, using good manners, being polite, and showing compassion. While those actions are integral to civility, they are merely part of the equation. It’s not just politeness and manners alone. Civility is not the same as always agreeing, liking someone, or the absence of criticism. In the legal profession (and elsewhere), as we tackle challenging and contentious issues and situations, there will always be disagreement. When there is disagreement, however, we must be able to recognize and discuss differences in a respectful manner. Period. There are no exceptions.
There are no exceptions based upon our practice area, the client, who opposing counsel is, or the particular legal or factual issue at stake. There are no exceptions because we are “right” – or strongly believe we are. We must allow for the fact that others may see things differently. Make no mistake – we are not perfect and will not always get it right. We should, however, work at it, with just as much intention as we bring to our creating high-quality work product. That focus contributes to our individual success and well-being. Research shows that lawyers who exercise civility are more effective, achieve better outcomes, have better reputations, and have higher job satisfaction. Indeed, the best and most respected attorneys I know are ones who consistently model civility, even in the most high-pressure and difficult situations.
Professionalism CLE speakers included State Bar President Todd Brown and NCBA President Patti Ramseur.
When legal professionals engage in civility, it also supports diversity and increases access to justice. It creates an environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. By engaging in dialogue in a respectful and compassionate manner, we deepen the understanding we have of ourselves and others. Civility also helps improve access to justice. It ensures that all parties have an opportunity to present arguments and that everyone’s voice is heard. When we treat others with respect, we contribute to a fair judicial process, which is critical for upholding the principles of justice. Civility also helps create a positive environment where lawyers are more likely to volunteer for pro bono work, helping to bridge the gap in access to justice.
For sure, the North Carolina Bar Association plays a critical role in this process. The NCBA provides many opportunities for legal professionals to come together to “serve the public and the legal profession by promoting the administration of justice and encouraging the highest standards of integrity, competence, civility and well-being of all members of the profession.” It is an important part of what makes us a professional association, rather than a trade association.
I encourage you to participate in one of our upcoming pro bono opportunities. On Friday, March 1, we will hold the NCBF’s 17th annual 4ALL – Lawyers on Call pro bono service event, where lawyers will serve in 3-hour shifts by practice area. Sign up to participate remotely or in person for the 4ALL – Lawyers on Call event. If that day does not work, consider one of the many other pro bono opportunities in which you can participate through the Association or the Foundation.
For better or worse, what we do (or don’t do) and how we behave as legal professionals has broad-reaching effects in our communities – far beyond ourselves and our clients. Civility in society is inextricably connected to civic education and engagement, areas in which we are uniquely situated to lead. Further, the public scrutinizes and often mimics the behavior of lawyers. Whether elected or not, we are leaders in our communities. As we lead and serve, let’s go forth and make civility contagious.
Lastly, a special thanks to the Professionalism Committee, chaired by Gill Beck, for the important work it is doing in this area. Under the leadership of CLE Co-Planners, Beck and Keith Faulkner, on December 1, 2023, the Professionalism Committee presented a CLE, entitled “Professionals, Colleagues, Friends, and Adversaries – The Key Role of Civility in Attorney Relationships and Communications.” Thank you to NCBA staff who helped produce this excellent program and to all the speakers who participated and continue to lead by example.
Patti Ramseur serves as president of the North Carolina Bar Association and the North Carolina Bar Foundation.