Balance Communication Environment Goals Leadership Personal Development Problem solving Values

Dealing With Toxic Law Partners

Written by Allison Wolf

Many organizations deal with toxic situations and people. Law firms and partners are no different. One thing that I have noticed in my industry is that there is a tendency to not deal with the toxic situation and avoid it. The path of least resistance may seem easier but it is often not the best approach. Instead, when there is something at stake for you or the organization, consider the advantages of tackling the situation directly.  Engage in the difficult conversations and corresponding actions needed to rectify the situation in the interest of firm values and a healthy organizational culture.

“Fortunately, there’s a simpler way to achieve the goal of “being nicer.” All you have to do is “stop being a jerk.”

Ensuring your partners represent the firm at their best or removing toxic behaviour is how actual firm values show up. If the individual can’t change their toxic behaviour, maybe it is time they move on.

Much that ails the legal profession is within the ability of lawyers to positively influence and transform including the actions and investments that lead to positive workplaces.

You can read the full article here.

About the author

Allison Wolf

I am the founder of AWAL and one of the most senior coaches for lawyers in North America. I have helped countless clients over the past fifteen years, develop thriving legal practices and before that served as director of marketing for award-winning law firms. My specialty is uncovering the thinking traps and gaps holding clients back and helping them acquire the mindsets, skills, and habits for growing successful and rewarding legal careers. After a career in legal marketing and business development with law firms in Beijing, New York, and Vancouver, I was trained as a coach in 2004 at Royal Roads University and now coach clients from across North America. You can reach me at allison@shiftworks.ca or learn more about my coaching practice from the coaching section of the Attorney With A Life Website.

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