Like American politics, the legal profession has suffered a decline in civility. In the heat of a hard-fought trial, “my friend” is treated more like a foe. Words traded verge on the rude and crude. Unlike politicians, lawyers are bound, as a matter of professional obligation, to be courteous and civil. At the same time, they are obliged to advocate their clients’ causes with zeal.
Treating “My Friend” Like My Foe: Incivility in the Courtroom
The Advocate – July 4, 2017