Lawyerist Podcast
#544: How to Build a Respectful Legal Workplace, with Erika Harold
Feb 6, 2025
In this conversation, Erika Harold, the Executive Director of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism and former Miss America, discusses the startling prevalence of bullying in the legal profession, revealing that one in four Illinois lawyers has faced it. They stress the urgent need for concrete policies to combat this behavior and foster a culture of respect. Harold shares actionable steps for individuals and law firms to promote civility, highlighting the importance of addressing power imbalances and creating a supportive workplace environment.
18:29
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Quick takeaways
- One in four Illinois lawyers experiences bullying, underscoring a critical need for substantial changes in legal workplace culture.
- Creating clear and actionable anti-bullying policies can empower lawyers to report incidents without fear, fostering a more respectful environment.
Deep dives
Understanding Workplace Bullying in the Legal Field
One in four lawyers in Illinois experiences bullying in their workplace, highlighting a significant issue within the legal profession. A study conducted by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism revealed that bullying is often defined by behaviors meant to intimidate, humiliate, or control. Common manifestations of this bullying include shouting, insulting remarks, and physical intimidation, with many individuals often overlooking these behaviors as part of their professional duties. This normalization of bullying behaviors raises serious concerns regarding the impact of workplace culture on mental health and career satisfaction among legal professionals.
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