Whether or not we like to acknowledge it, internal “politics” are a fact of life in the workplace, and law firms are no exception. At every level of the firm’s structure, issues of power can exist whenever two or more people work together. Too often, these issues remain below the surface, instead of being openly discussed. But, lurking there, they can lead to all sorts of problems — clashes, controversies, jealousy, intrigue, and simmering resentment, just to name a few — all of which hinder productivity and reduce motivation.
When turf wars and power plays are the result, the entire firm may be affected. Politics are not only distracting and disruptive to the business of the firm, they may eventually lead to departures of valued lawyers — along with important clients.
