Teaching Civility: Manners, Mindfulness, and a Modicum of Respect

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January 2014

University of New Mexico, School of Law
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Robert’s Fund Assistant Director of Programming and Curriculum, Tim Jaasko-Fisher, presented to the UNM Law faculty a 90-minute program that featured an exploration of the nature of civility and the personal, economic, and societal costs associated with uncivil behavior, as well as a guided discussion about what can be done to promote civility on an individual and institutional level.

Civility: An Ethical and Effective Approach to Advocacy

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December 2013

Washington State Bar Association-NLE Personal Injury Section
Seattle, Washington

Robert’s Fund President, Professor Paula Lustbader, presented a 60-minute program focused on the costs of incivility, the benefits of civility, and the ethics of civility. Participants discussed ways to encourage clients to take a civil approach in order to reduce transaction costs and obtain more just and satisfying results.

Civility Promise CLE/CJE for Legal Professionals in Tuscany, Italy

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October 2013

Robert’s Fund would like to thank all who came to historic and beautiful Sovana for this 8-day seminar on civility in the legal profession.

The seminar included lectures, discussions, and interactive exercises designed to foster civility, complemented by guided excursions through the nearby villages and beautiful countryside.

“Most useful was the realization that civility issues (or incivility) are like the tip of the iceberg for much broader and larger personal issues.”

“In terms of fostering civility in the profession, I now feel I have the tools to improve my interactions with negotiations and people in general.”

“The program helped me to feel more whole. I feel satisfied and I feel like I have a path to my life’s purpose.”

“It was most useful that the CLE was held far away from home/practice/everyday life.”

“The best thing about the seminar is the opportunity to connect with other lawyers in a setting away from home and responsibility. The interactive exercises allow that.”

“I never expected to develop the deep and meaningful connections to the others in the seminar. This has never happened to me before, and I will always value it.”

Robert’s Fund offers these intensive seminars in Italy every spring and fall. Learn more about upcoming seminars in Italy

Civility and Cross-Cultural Communication CLE/CJE

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August 2013

Robert's Fund would like to thank all who joined us for this seminar.

A key component of civility is increasing our awareness of how our culturally based assumptions and biases influence our interactions with others. Extensive research, especially in the field of anthropology, has facilitated a better understanding of how cultural differences impact our interactions. This seminar introduced the fundamentals of civility and key research about cross-cultural understandings. It also suggested practical approaches to achieve more effective cross-cultural encounters. A key part of the presentation was devoted to building the participants’ own cultural profile and familiarizing them with the fundamental societal values that shape how people think and act. This nuanced understanding will empower them to interact more effectively with people from other cultural groups, well beyond what anecdotes and stereotypes offer.

“Excellent speakers and a good use of my time.”

“Very informative seminar, lively and creative presenters.”

“One of the best presentations I have heard in my life.”

“Opened my eyes.”

Robert’s Fund offers CLE/CJE seminars in Seattle every spring and summer. Learn more about upcoming seminars in Seattle

Civility Mural Unveiling and Reception in Seattle, Washington

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March 2013

This mural, created by 18 lawyers and judges during the April 2012 Civility Promise Seminar in Tuscany, is now installed permanently in Judge Mary Yu’s King County Superior Courtroom. It symbolizes the value of civility in the service of justice in our profession.

Many thanks to all who joined us at the mural unveiling! View the event recap

Civility Promise Alumni Dinner in Seattle, Washington

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March 2013

Following the civility mural unveiling and reception in Judge Yu's courtroom, alumni of The Civility Promise seminars reconnected with each other over a sumptuous meal. Held in the Chinese Room at the historic Smith Tower in downtown Seattle, the dinner was accompanied by lively conversation and brief remarks from Professor Paula Lustbader, Robert's Fund President. All enjoyed a wonderful evening as they took in panoramic views of the city skyline and renewed their commitment to civility in the legal profession.

The Foundations of Civility in the Legal Profession

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March 2013

Robert's Fund would like to thank all who joined us for this seminar.

During this intensive day-long program, attendees engaged in a retreat-like dialogue about civility. After exploring the characteristics of civility, participants discussed the costs of incivility, the benefits of civility, and strategies to foster civility within their personal and professional lives. In addition to traditional lectures and presentations, this immersion seminar included interactive exercises.

“This was so different from other CLEs. I really liked it. The interaction was great.”

“Great exercises. I really appreciated the interactions with other attendees”

Robert’s Fund offers CLE/CJE seminars in Seattle every spring and summer. Learn more about upcoming seminars in Seattle

Civility Promise CLE/CJE for Legal Professionals in Tuscany, Italy

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October 2012

Robert’s Fund would like to thank all who came to historic and beautiful Sovana for this 8-day seminar on civility in the legal profession.

The seminar included lectures, discussions, and interactive exercises designed to foster civility, complemented by guided excursions through the nearby villages and beautiful countryside.

Robert’s Fund offers these intensive seminars in Italy every spring and fall. Learn more about upcoming seminars in Italy