Week 5 

American Bar Association Standard 303(c) requires law schools to “provide education to law students on bias, cross-cultural competency, and racism.” While the Standard does not formally define those topics, Interpretation 303-6 offers some guidance. It explains that “among the values and responsibilities of the legal profession” are (i) “the importance of cross-cultural competency,” and (ii) “the obligation of lawyers to promote a justice system that provides equal access and eliminates bias, discrimination, and racism in the law.”

Thus, it is essential for a cross-cultural lawyer to:

a. Cultivate self-awareness as a cultural individual to recognize personal biases and ethnocentric perspectives.

b. Maintain a present and respectful approach towards clients, valuing their dignity, voice, and unique stories.

c. Establish a habit of self-awareness and continuous growth in cross-cultural lawyering interactions.

Developing this awareness and commitment to improvement will facilitate better communication between you and your supervisor, you and your clients, and in all your interactions with others.

Below you are asked to complete various activities designed to facilitate your understanding of the significance of cross-cultural lawyering and its impact on legal practice, effective communication with clients from diverse backgrounds, navigating cultural differences in negotiations and dispute resolution, and promoting equal access to justice for individuals from all cultural backgrounds. Our goal is to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity, preparing students to navigate the legal profession with sensitivity and fairness.