The fluctuation between spikes in COVID-19 variants, vaccinations, and the ever-changing work environment can feel like a never-ending rollercoaster ride. While more and more workplaces are adapting their offices to accommodate social distancing and remote proceedings, so too are more and more lawyers and judges are returning to their offices to work. While we have to give kudos to the judges and lawyers who have appeared in court conferences and conducted oral arguments in their kitchens and living rooms over the last year and half, making the change back to in-person office work will present its own new set of challenges.

For many of us, leaving our comfortable work-from-home environment will feel like having a rug pulled out from under our slippers. For others who are excited to return to the office, you may get the feeling that there is a loss of things-as-they-used-to-be. Regardless of which category you fall into, here are some tips from practitioners for returning to the office and in-person lawyering.