Beyond Smart: Lawyering with Emotional Intelligence

© Ronda Muir 1

the first comprehensive guide to understanding, using and raising emotional intelligence in the uniquecontext of law practice

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“If I wanted to talk about feelings,

I wouldn’t have gone to law school.”

Keeping Ourselves and Each Other Safe

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Elliot, the Lawyer With No Emotions

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Average Emotional Intelligence and IQ Among Lawyers

IQ

70 85 100 115 130

EI

EI data based on research of Dr. Larry Richard.

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The Hierarchy of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Management

Emotional Understanding

Emotional Empathy

Emotional Perception

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Reading Emotional Cues in the Eyes

A. Playful B. Comforting C. Irritated D. Bored

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Reading Emotional Cues in the Eyes

A. Decisive B. Amused C. Bored D. Flirtatious

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Emotions Physically Change Us

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Emotions Color Our Judgment

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Our Emotions Radiate

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Emotions Impact Our Performance

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Emotions Impact Our Health

ABA Hazelden Report

Substance AbuseAlcohol—36.4%

Clinical Depression—28%

Clinical Stress—23%

Clinical Anxiety—19%

Suicidal Thoughts—10-20%+

Suicide—2xs and rising

Conclusion: Attorney impairment is “profound and far-reaching”

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What to Do?

Be curious!Mute TV and movies

Track and name emotions

Find an EI buddy

Practice mindfulness

Use positivity