Deborah A. Donohue, Maryland Office of the Attorney General
Paralegals and legal assistants often operate at the intersection of attorneys, office leadership, and administrative staff — each with different priorities, communication styles, and authority structures. This insightful session provides practical tools to help legal support professionals navigate office dynamics confidently, manage conflicting expectations, and protect professional boundaries while maintaining strong working relationships.
By the end of this session, you’ll be able to better able identify common power dynamics and role tensions in your offices; recognize and avoid frequent pitfalls faced by paralegals and legal assistants; apply communication strategies for managing up, across, and around conflict; set and maintain professional boundaries without harming relationships; and respond effectively to mixed messages, unrealistic demands, and informal pressure. These competencies will empower you to advocate for yourself while contributing to a healthier, more effective legal workplace.