Whether as direct as an insult or as subtle as a vicious word, lack of civility, like bullying, is a serious problem. Bullying can raise emotional and professional injuries, which is why I expect that we hear about the continuing exodus of attorneys from our profession. This bullying is verbal, such as mocking, insults, or taking an assertive tone in telephone conversation or correspondence. Some professional bullying comes in the form of lack of following proper decorum, notice periods, or taking advantage while counsel has scheduling conflicts. Lawyer Bullies enjoy bullying.
Bullies enjoy the power of bullying, and making other people suffer.
Far from regretting their acts, they often rationalize them by saying that their victim provoked them in some way. Victims often keep mum. The new lawyer who is bullied usually suffers in silence because he or she feels that nothing can be done to help. Perhaps, the new lawyer becomes isolated and depressed, and begins to look at themselves introspectively as the cause of the bulling. The courts and the bar association are aware of uncivil or bullying conduct and is looking for ways to reduce or eliminate it.