CPD 1.5 hours
PEAT Outcome - Relevant legal knowledge
OBJECTIVES
In Casino Royale, James Bond is asked why he is the best poker player in MI6. He says “you don't play your own hand, you play the other person’s”. And so it is in solicitor practice. There are three major relationships to deal with. First, in order to get the best result for your client - in a divorce, a house purchase, a commercial lease - you need to be able to work out what the other side is thinking. This might get your client the best price, or the lightest obligations, or the most by way of matrimonial asset share. With two ears and one mouth, it is crucial to listen (and understand) before speaking. Second, how well does your client think you are doing for him or her? Are your emails, your calls, advice – even your appearance and mood – making the client think you are doing a good job? And third, do you understand what your colleagues think of you and your work?
Black letter law is a tiny part of the job of a solicitor or paralegal. Understanding motivation (yours included) is hundreds of times more important. in our lecture we will explore attitudes, empathy, communication. We will discuss how to prevent and resolve problems - using human nature as our means of doing so.
DELEGATES
Whether you’re a solicitor, paralegal, legal manager, or trainee, this Zoom webinar will equip you with essential soft skills that go far beyond the black letter law. Elevate your practice by mastering the psychology behind successful legal work.
SPEAKER
Austin Lafferty, Consultant Solicitor, Austin Lafferty Ltd
Austin Lafferty has been a solicitor for 44 years and has seen it all. He has semi-retired from firm he founded and developed, and has had a great deal of involvement not just with cases and transactions, but in the wider interests of the profession. He has been a Law Society of Scotland Council member since 2006 and was President of the Society in 2012-3.
