Handling conflict in the courtroom

Seattle plaintiffs' attorney Paul Luvera offers sage advice for handling conflict in the courtroom. If it feels as though opposing counsel is always at your throat, do as Gerry Spence does. Wait until the rant is over. Pause. Address the court with a smile on your face. Maintain your calm demeanor -- no matter how hot you are under the collar.

As Mr. Spence would suggest, contrast your mood and demeanor with that of opposing counsel. Don't allow yourself to get drawn down into the gutter.

Mr. Luvera ends with a quote from Seneca: "He is most powerful who has himself in power."