Improving Partner Relationships

While teamwork is necessary among law partners, firms may find themselves breaking up over interpersonal conflicts or functioning in an atmosphere of antagonism and hostility. Several guidelines are presented that can promote positive working relationships among practicing partners. For instance, attorneys with conflicting viewpoints should set aside time for discussion in a more informal setting outside the office. Social interactions outside the workplace can also help to build better relationships. Attorneys can lessen the strain of petty jealousies by not referring to a client as "my" client but as "our" client. Differences in style, skills, values, and approaches among lawyers can be channeled to produce strengths rather than liabilities. When a positive outcome occurs, the entire firm should share the credit. If the firm is plagued with problems involving lack of trust, these difficulties must be dealt with quickly.