Dealing with the Bully at the Other Table
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Professionals are supposed to act professionally, but that’s not always the case. Some attorneys have very aggressive personalities and have used that to try (and sometimes succeed) to further their legal careers. Unfortunately, some of the bullies who strutted through high school hallways passed the bar exam. One of them represents the opposing party. If the other attorney is trying to bully you what should you do?
If you want to fight fire with fire and respond with anger or emotion, take a time out and create some space, suggests an article by Nancy Pritikin in The Recorder. This can mean physically as in stepping away or going into another room or just taking a deep breath. Since everything happening during litigation is “on the record” lashing back won’t help your client.
You can also open up some space by not allowing the bully to set the tone. Don’t lower yourself to his or her level. Stand your ground and don’t allow yourself to be controlled or manipulated, none of which requires shouting or rude behavior on your part.
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