By Lexington Wolff, Chief Staff Writer

As I was leaving the event, I was struck by how the boorish behavior of the audience members overshadowed the validity of their arguments. It was a blatant example of how a lack of civility can devalue even the most well-intentioned argument.
As a law student about to enter into a career of advocacy, this experience has taught me an invaluable lesson on the importance of civility. Since the legal profession is adversarial in nature, it is especially important for lawyers to continuously strive to maintain an unwavering commitment to professionalism. We must do this not simply because the code of professional conduct demands it, but also because we, as human beings, demand it from ourselves. This commitment must extend beyond the courtroom and into our everyday lives. By constantly reminding ourselves of the fine line that divides unruly arguments from professional advocacy, we will be able to fulfill our commitment to society as civilized lawyers, and our obligation to our clients as dedicated advocates.
Lexington Wolff is the Chief Staff Writer of Juris. She is also a member of the Federalist Society and the Women's Law Association. Lexington is a 2008 graduate of Duquesne University with a B.A. in
Journalism and a Minor in Political Science. She will graduate from Duquesne Law School in June of 2011. Lexington can be reached at Wolffl@duq.edu.
Lexington Wolff is the Chief Staff Writer of Juris. She is also a member of the Federalist Society and the Women's Law Association. Lexington is a 2008 graduate of Duquesne University with a B.A. in
Journalism and a Minor in Political Science. She will graduate from Duquesne Law School in June of 2011. Lexington can be reached at Wolffl@duq.edu.