Working with neurodivergent clients can present unique complexities. From communication barriers to navigating sensory sensitivities, lawyers must possess a specialised skill set to effectively represent these individuals. The College delves into proven strategies that build trust and foster clear communication with Kathryn Schuck, Principal of Inclusive Family Law and Mediation.

Obtaining clear instructions from your client may seem like a straightforward requirement as a lawyer. However, this can be easier said than done if a client is in a fraught emotional state (and if they are seeing a lawyer this may be the case) or if there are differences in culture. Special Counsel Olamide Kowalik knows this all too well, as part of the Springwood-based Revolution Law team, Olamide advises clients from a wide range of backgrounds. We asked for Olamide’s advice on navigating these issues in order to gain clear instructions. 

There’s no doubt the legal sector can be an intense work environment. Thanks to heavy caseloads and fierce competition, lawyers and other legal professionals are facing stress, anxiety and burnout on a concerning scale. But according to executive transition coach and CEO at Lucent Global, Ellie Scarf, it doesn’t have to be this way. There’s one tool that can help you manage a plethora of professional challenges. That tool? Self-awareness.

You have probably heard it a thousand times before, “confidence is key”. But what does a confident communicator really look like? Research has shown it’s less about ‘what’ you say and more about ‘how’ you say it. Learning to speak clearly and confidently may be hard, but according to Pippa Gardner, Communications Expert and Coach at PG Communications, the results are worth it. Here is Pippa’s Four C Framework to help you speak with influence.

Working in law is competitive at every level let alone for those with a disability. Improving inclusivity, and at the most basic level improving the way we talk about disability in the workplace, is something the legal sector needs to actively address.  

With the advent of artificial intelligence in law, the role of lawyers is shifting to become increasingly client-focussed. Insights explores the role of empathy in legal work, and how lawyers can take practical steps to better empathise with their clients – ensuring clients are happier and more satisfied at the conclusion of a matter.