Texas Bar Journal • April 2025

Texas Day of Civility

Help keep courtrooms civil.

Written by Manpreet Singh and William G. Hagans

“Lawyers and judges owe each other respect, diligence, candor, punctuality, and protection against unjust and improper criticism and attack.
Lawyers and judges are equally responsible to protect the dignity and independence of the Court and the profession.”

When was the last time you read Section IV (Lawyer and Judge) of the Texas Lawyer’s Creed?

We often lament that our profession swings like a civility pendulum. As we approach this year’s Day of Civility (April 10), it is essential to reflect on the importance of maintaining a respectful and civil environment in courtrooms. This involves not only the interactions between attorneys, but also between attorneys and judges. Both parties play crucial roles in upholding the dignity and independence of the court and the legal profession.

Lawyers and judges are equally responsible for protecting the integrity of the legal system. They must demonstrate respect, diligence, candor, punctuality, and protect against unjust criticism. Section IV of the Texas Lawyer’s Creed outlines these responsibilities, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and professionalism. Ideally, these principles will guide all of our actions in the courtroom.

Civility is not just a virtue; it is a necessity in the courtroom. Judges who are respectful and prepared earn the respect of litigants, while lawyers who are professional and cooperative enhance their reputation and the effectiveness of their advocacy. Being referred to as a “lawyer’s judge” is one of the highest compliments a judge can receive, indicating that he treats litigants with respect, prepares thoroughly, listens attentively, and provides reasoned rulings. Similarly, a litigant being described as “unwaveringly professional” by a judge is a testament to his ability to focus on the bigger picture, concede minor issues, and work collaboratively with opposing counsel and court staff.

Great trial lawyers and great judges know how to separate themselves from personal biases and focus on the legal issues at hand, ensuring that emotions do not cloud their judgment.

Civility can be tested when litigants take extreme positions or when judges allow delays in proceedings. Lawyers should approach judges without preconceived notions, setting aside biases as they would ask juries to do. Similarly, judges can improve by addressing delays and ensuring timely proceedings, which can reduce frustration and promote a more civil environment.

Increasing the number of courts and judges could help reduce delays. The Harris County Civil Courts at Law recently tried this and saw the addition of a civil associate judge significantly reduce the docket. Regular, robust conferences among lawyers can also facilitate smoother proceedings. However, the most critical step is for lawyers and judges to remember that all of us are part of the same profession. We are in this together. We deserve to be “passionately proud” of our profession. We can help shape the way in which people perceive both judges and lawyers alike.

“As members of a learned art we pursue a common calling in the spirit of public service. We have a proud tradition.”

Ultimately, as members of this noble profession, lawyers and judges must always strive to maintain high standards of civility. This not only enhances the effectiveness of the legal system but also promotes a positive public image. By embracing civility and mutual respect, we can ensure that justice is served with dignity and integrity, reflecting the proud tradition of public service that underpins our work.

MANPREET SINGH has been the judge of Harris County Civil County Court at Law No. 4 since 2022. Prior to taking the bench, Singh was a litigation attorney for 21 years, during which she tried over 100 jury trials.

WILLIAM G. HAGANS is the chair of the State Bar of Texas Professionalism Committee. Certified in personal injury trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, he is a trial lawyer in Houston, where he handles both commercial and serious personal injury and death cases. Hagans is also chair-elect of the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation.