Self-Discipline, Faith, and Civility: Promoting a Civil Society and Lawyer Professionalism

Authors

Honorable Douglas S. Lang, Thompson Coburn LLPFollow

First Page

264

Date Created

9-26-2024

Publisher

St. Mary's University School of Law

Editor

Alyssa Boggs

Last Page

295

Abstract

All lawyers are bound to assiduously adhere to the Law, including the strictures of legal ethics, professionalism, and all secular law. Moreover, lawyers of faith must adhere to the tenants of their faith as a way of life. The principles of those two sets of imperatives are not only compatible, they are inextricably intertwined. Together, they compel lawyers to treat others civilly and with respect and dignity. This paper demonstrates that lawyers, particularly Catholic lawyers, must unselfishly and civilly live their lives in a way to combat the scourge of incivility in the legal profession and in society. All of that requires self-evaluation and self-discipline to thwart incivility. In order to make a difference, lawyers must assure that others comprehend the critical importance of civility in all aspects of human interaction. That can and must be passed on by education, that is, by mentoring of both beginning and experienced lawyers.[1] The Golden Rule sums it all up, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Luke 6:31.

Recommended Citation

Honorable Douglas S. Lang, Self-Discipline, Faith, and Civility: Promoting a Civil Society and Lawyer Professionalism, 14 St. Mary's J. on Legal Malpractice & Ethics 264 (2024).
Available at: https://commons.stmarytx.edu/lmej/vol14/iss2/4