This lesson appears to be lost or never learned among many practicing lawyers. Every article I have seen from any sitting judge, giving pointers to lawyers on improving their effectiveness, mentions the lack of civility in civil law. This issue generally does not rear its ugly head in the criminal arena. Therefore, I was shocked upon beginning civil practice, to discover the many uncooperative maneuvers practiced by many Seattle attorneys. I have been told I was unable to fully participate in a case due to leaving a deposition, despite prior warning, to pick up my child.
Women continue to be subjected to society s expectation that a smart or aggressive woman is a bitch.
Unfortunately, a civil lawyer who is cooperative regarding extensions of deadlines, admission of exhibits, etc. The practice of law, with its emphasis on winning, and the determination of many attorneys who confuse zealous advocacy with rude behavior, can be unrewarding, particularly when compared with parenthood. However, working to transform the profession from within is much more appealing than withdrawal. Rhonda Kalil is the mother of two daughters and works as in-house counsel for Safeco in Seattle. The mission of the Washington State Bar Association is to promote justice and to serve its members and the public.