The Massachusetts Bar Association is proud to present a
series of statewide bench-bar programs, which will feature interactive
discussions on enhancing civility and professionalism, as well as tips for a
better courtroom experience.
The July 2019 report from the Supreme Judicial Court’s Steering Committee on
Lawyer Well-Being cited the deteriorating quality of interactions in court
settings between attorneys, judges, witnesses and court personnel as one of the
barriers to attorney well-being. The report offered several suggestions to
improve attorney wellness, efficiency and quality of life, including a
recommendation for regular bench-bar discussions between bar associations and
the judiciary.
This program will feature a panel of judges from each Trial Court department,
as well as attorneys practicing before these courts. Each program will be
moderated by a leading trial attorney and give panelists the opportunity to
offer their perspectives on how courtroom behavior impacts lawyer well-being.
Lawyer bullying, the role of judges in preventing incivility and tips for
improving civility in contested litigation are among the topics to be
addressed.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions on these vital topics.
Following the moderated question-and-answer session with the panel, audience
members will have an opportunity to ask additional questions and offer
suggestions for enhancing the courtroom experience based on their own
observations.
A networking reception with refreshments will follow the
program.
Register for the following additional statewide bench-bar programs:
Faculty:
Denise Squillante, Esq., Moderator
Law Office of Denise Squillante, Fall River
Hon. Katherine A. Field, Panelist
Bristol County Probate and Family Court, Taunton
Hon. Kevin J. Finnerty, Panelist
Fall River District Court
Hon. Neil K. Sherring, Panlelist
Circuit Justice, Massachusetts Housing Court
Hon. Tracie L. Marciarelli Souza, Panelist
Taunton Juvenile Court, Taunton
Hon. William F. Sullivan, Panelist
Associate Justice, Massachusetts Superior Court
Colleen E. McGahan, Esq., Panelist
Attleboro District Court, Attleboro
Leo M. Spano, Esq., Panelist
Gay & Gay PC, Taunton