Diversity and Professionalism Educational Seminar in Fort Myers, Florida

Honorable Lee County Commissioner Frank Mann and Honorable Lee County Clerk of Court Linda Doggett graciously opened the seminar with welcoming remarks.

Honorable Judge Carolyn D. Swift of the 20^th Circuit Court discussed the professional qualities of competence, communication, and confidentiality. She also discussed the necessity of conflict-free representation, functional attorney-client relationships, the attorney’s obligation to be fair with both the client and opposing counsel, and how attorneys are role models.

Honorable Lee County Clerk of Court Linda Doggett talked about how an entire office or workplace is interconnected and interrelated, and how an attitude of excellence as a mission statement and goal can influence the work environment and create teamwork.

Mr. Henry Lee Paul, Esq., spoke about the importance of Standards of Professionalism, and how standards for behavior are becoming part of disciplinary proceedings. He also discussed the importance of mentorship, discussed various Florida Bar resources to help new attorneys and ones encountering difficulties, and emphasized the need for attorneys who are encountering difficulties to be willing to ask for help.

Ms. Adriannette Williams, Esq., discussed the concept of micro-aggressions, and how unthinking or careless acts could hurt others.

Ms. Kelly Fayer, past President of the Lee County Bar Association, discussed the need for diligence and prompt communication, and how vital it is to make sure that an attorney’s professional behavior is beyond reproach.

Mr. John Webb, the President of the Lee County Bar Association moderated a panel discussion with Ita M. Neymotin Esq., Regional Counsel, Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel of the Second District Court of Appeal, the Honorable Amira Fox, Esq., State Attorney for the 20^th Judicial Circuit, and the Honorable Kathleen A. Smith, Esq., Public Defender for the 20^th Judicial Circuit. Various topics were discussed including the use and pitfalls of social media, the difficulty of rehabilitation of a damaged reputation, the importance of mentorship, how important it is to maintain mental health, and the strengths diversity and different cultures bring to the office.