IN THE PROFESSION and hearing differences . Equity is recognizing and finding solutions - regarding who is trying to be a part of a group but is unable , or who is in threat of no longer being a part of the group , or what is being done to maintain the majority of the group , usually to the detriment of others . The panel pointed out that we all have biases . Unconscious biases are those involuntary favorable and unfavorable assessments made without realizing or without intentional control .
The panelists continued the discussion of these topics to help the audience be more aware of the various types of biases and to recognize where blind spots may exist and help others be more aware of their own biases . The Lawyer ’ s Creed imposes obligations on lawyers to be more inclusive . Specifically , the Lawyer ’ s Creed imposes an obligation to be fair and civil with opposing parties and counsel ; an obligation to offer concern for the welfare of our colleagues ; and an obligation to offer service to the public .
Each panelist shared observations of bias at work , including in the courtrooms , law firms , and in in-house legal departments . Panelists revealed their experiences in evaluating associates harshly and being evaluated too harshly due to biases . Next , panelists examined how perceptions or assumptions can prevent objective judgment in making decisions . Then , the panel reviewed how the overall impression of a person can influence how we feel and think about a person ’ s character , and how we can often change our opinions or behavior based upon group pressure . We gravitate towards individuals with whom we find commonalities , in appearance , beliefs , or backgrounds . For example , an assumption from others that identifies a female in the room as the legal assistant or court reporter when in fact she was the attorney . The panel also discussed how assumptions have been made about the availability of a female attorney to lead a project or take on a client .
However , biases are not always just about gender . Biases may include race , color , national origin , religion , veteran status , handicap , educational level , age , or anything where we make assumptions about an individual or group without sufficient information and context for the specific individual or group .
Lastly , the CLE audience was asked to be sure to avoid all forms of wrongful discrimination and to be aware of all the ways we all have biases . The Lawyer ’ s Creed imposes upon all lawyers the duty to be aware of your actions and judgements towards your clients , opposing counsels , more junior and more senior colleagues , your clients , and the public . It also asks that we offer concern for the welfare of our colleagues . This CLE , in celebration of women in the law , reminds us that we all have biases . The key is to be aware of the many biases and ensure that your decisions and judgments are thoughtful and intentional . We should all strive to create equity and inclusion in the legal profession and to remember the role of professionalism in advancing legal career options for women .
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