Addressing and Overcoming Unconscious Bias in the Legal Profession with Erin Gerstenzang [LGE 044]

Lawyers Gone Ethical

As the dialogue about overcoming implicit bias and workplace inequity gets louder in other industries, I’m taking a closer look at the state of unconscious bias in the legal industry to better understand how we can eliminate these biases in our profession. Joining me for this conversation is Erin Gerstenzang, Atlanta criminal defense attorney and advocate for the advancement of women in the law.

Erin and I explore how unconscious bias presents itself in law firms and other workplace settings and what we, as lawyers, can be doing to become better allies and help eliminate workplace inequalities.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

• What is the value of having conversations about race, gender, and religion inequality?
• How can we create safe spaces to have these important conversations?
• There’s power in being an ally, so how can you become a stronger ally for others?
• Why is it important to “call someone in” as opposed to “call them out”?
• The first step to eliminating bias is to acknowledge it
• How does unconscious bias affect decisions that are made about your career when you’re not in the room?
• How being the “only” in your office can lead to increased micro-aggression and harassment
• What is moral licensing and how does it affect your behavior?
• What can lawyers be doing right now to help eliminate unconscious bias in the legal profession?
• The importance of proximity in busting biases

Resources Mentioned:

The Visible Hand study

Contact Information:

Twitter: @ehglawfirm

Thank you for listening!

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This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.