Presenters: Ellen Pansky, Valerie Markle, Stephen King & Judge Romero
Topic: Elimination of Bias in the Legal Profession (1:00:53)

Engaging in biased activity is a disciplinary offense and has been so for many years. In this presentation on Elimination of Bias in the Legal Profession at the Trial Skills and Ethics Seminar, panelists Ellen Pansky, Valerie Markle, Stephen King & Judge Romero discuss Rule 8.4.1 Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation. They discuss the self-reporting conditions and duties that attorneys have under this rule, the importance of this rule, how it is applied, and the confusion often associated with it. They also share their own experiences with implicit biases and discuss why it is important to acknowledge one’s own biases and talk openly with the jury about them in order for them to become explicit. Being open and honest with the jury about your own biases will not only help humanize yourself, but will help humanize your client as well.