Leveling the Playing Field: Elimination of Bias in the Legal Profession

This program covers the applicable laws and standards regarding bias and discrimination, including the different types of protected classes and their specific application within the legal profession. It enhances the viewer’s ability to recognize signs of both overt and subtle bias in the legal workplace while providing strategies for eliminating bias and discrimination within the law firm, courtroom, and when dealing with clients.

San Diego County Deputy District Attorney, Wendy Patrick, illuminates how sensitivity to both overt and subtle signs of bias and discrimination is paramount.  Ms. Patrick reveals tools to staying aware of your law firm's practices and educating employees. Additionally, she analyzes options when faced with bias and discrimination dilemmas and the ethical rules and standards that specifically address these situations. 

Learning Objectives: 

I.     Recognize overt and subtle signs of bias and stereotyping and identify tools to stay aware of your law firm's practices

II.    Identify various classes of individuals protected under different laws and standards

III.   Grasp ethical rules and standards prohibiting bias and discrimination in employment and client interactions

IV.  Solve common dilemmas that may arise in the law firm environment