High-Conflict Lawyering: Communication and Control

This program will explore strategies for effectively managing challenging client behaviors and adversarial opposing counsel. Participants will learn proven methods of communication, techniques for assessing client challenges, and approaches for maintaining professionalism in even the most tense legal contexts. Emphasis will be placed on emotional intelligence, boundary setting, and fostering collaborative courtroom dynamics.

Attorneys should attend to strengthen their communication and case management skills, particularly in high-conflict or emotionally charged cases. The program offers practical guidance for dealing with mental health issues, personality disorders, and unprofessional behavior in opposing counsel.

This course will cover how to identify and categorize demanding clients, techniques for communicating clearly and compassionately with clients and counsel, and strategies for protecting professional boundaries and declining or terminating representation. Tips for handling disruptive or unethical opposing counsel while maintaining professionalism will also be presented.

This program is ideal for family law attorneys, litigators, and solo practitioners who regularly interact with high-conflict clients or contentious opposing counsel. Attorneys with some to moderate levels of experience will find the most benefit from this course.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and assess different types of demanding clients using a structured history and behavioral assessment model.
2. Understand effective communication practices with both clients and opposing counsel, including pros and cons of each method.
3. Strategize for setting expectations and boundaries to manage client relationships ethically and effectively.
4. Explore methods for disengaging from unfit representation scenarios through ethical withdrawal or non-engagement.
5. Navigate difficult opposing counsel while upholding courtroom decorum and professional standards.