Advocating for Civility — WSBA Family Law Section

Civility in the legal profession:
“treating others with courtesy, dignity, and respect, as well as demonstrating “cooperation, honesty, and restraint.”

David A. Grenardo, Civility Rules: Debunking the Major Myths Surrounding Mandatory Civility for Lawyers and Five Mandatory Civility Rules That Will Work, 37 GEO J. LEGAL ETHICS 167, 172 (2024).

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(1) recognize the importance of keeping commitments and of seeking agreement and accommodation with regard to scheduling and extensions;
(2) be respectful and act in a courteous, cordial, and civil manner;
(3) be prompt, punctual, and prepared;
(4) maintain honesty and personal integrity;
(5) communicate with opposing counsel;
(6) avoid actions taken merely to delay or harass;
(7) ensure proper conduct before the court;
(8) act with dignity and cooperation in pre-trial proceedings;
(9) act as a role model to the client and public and as a mentor to young lawyers;
(10) utilize the court system in an efficient and fair manner.

Donald E. Campbell, Raise Your Right Hand and Swear to Be Civil: Defining Civility as an Obligation of Professional Responsibility,
47 GONZ. L. REV. 99, 107-109 (2011).

Family Law Section
Washington State Bar Association

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Family Law SectionWashington State Bar Association

Family Law Section
Washington State Bar Association