So you probably think I am kidding about biting. Not so. As reported by Above the Law and other sources, a summer associate at Sidley in NYC recently lost her position for biting colleagues. Not once, not twice, but a series of bites. It seems totally unbelievable, but, alas, it is the most recent in toxic law firm behaviors.
Although other bad behaviors may pale by comparison to the bitathon at Sidley, those other behaviors are worth mentioning because toxic behaviors are, unfortunately, far too familiar at many firms. The combination of stress, time constraints and competition is rife for bad behaviors. A lot is expected by supervisors, by clients, and by other outside controllers, and it can lead to unfortunate outcomes in terms of personal behaviors. Belittling and other rudeness, bullying, name-calling, gossiping, spreading rumors, refusal to collaborate and other forms of disrespect are easy to spot and need to be dealt with before they get out of control.
It is just another thing for law firm leaders to address, but address it they must. Because if left unaddressed, toxic behaviors can negatively affect morale. And low morale can lead to low retention.
Toxic behaviors are not limited to junior lawyers. Toxic behaviors by senior lawyers include narcissism, micromanagement, blame-shifting and passive-aggressive attitudes. Addressing bad behaviors by top-performing partners is particularly dicey, but it must be done because too many people will suffer if it is allowed to continue. That means that law firm leaders need to police their own ranks.
Addressing toxic behaviors is part of assuring healthy work environments and cultures of wellness. It is always worth the time and attention it requires. Encouraging an environment of approachability is important so that individual lawyers know if they see something to say something. Establishment of impartial processes for fact finding and avoidance of pre-judgment are additional important steps toward protection of the workplace.
All lawyers and support staff are entitled to work environments that bring out the best in them and in others. I think we can agree that biting colleagues definitely does not accomplish those goals. It is one toxic behavior you definitely should avoid.
