This CLE program examines the evolving role of civility in the legal profession and the increasing attention courts and regulators are paying to attorney conduct. As concerns about incivility in litigation, motion practice, discovery, and courtroom advocacy have grown, courts have turned to disciplinary authorities and professionalism rules to address conduct that undermines the administration of justice. The effectiveness of these efforts, however, has been uneven, particularly in large jurisdictions with high-volume dockets and diverse practice environments.
Participants will explore how civility standards have developed over time, the ways in which they are enforced today, and where those enforcement mechanisms fall short. The program will analyze recent cases, disciplinary actions, and judicial opinions addressing attorney incivility, as well as the practical consequences lawyers face when professional conduct crosses the line—from sanctions and reputational harm to ethical complaints.
Designed for practicing attorneys across disciplines, this course provides practical guidance on navigating adversarial advocacy while meeting professional obligations. Attendees will gain insight into how courts define “uncivil” behavior, how regulators respond, and how attorneys can protect their clients, licenses, and credibility while practicing law in an increasingly contentious legal landscape.
