Trauma-Informed Client Care for Barristers

Whether it's in a first introduction or during the end stages of trial preparation, communicating and collaborating with clients can sometimes feel impossible. Some clients may cry or shout, but others simply won't respond reliably with the information you need, and still others might seem completely shut off or disengaged from all instruction and advice. Many barristers can feel at a loss when they don't understand the behaviour of a client, especially when the behaviours are related to trauma.

In this session, Anna Fischer, Wellbeing Manager at The Law Society of NSW, will approach the common pitfalls of barrister-client communication and relationships from a scientific, trauma-informed perspective. She will address the basics of trauma and emotional dysregulation, discuss how client trauma often influences the barrister-client relationship and legal processes, and outline practical techniques for identifying and responding to client behaviours that are related to trauma. She will also address practical techniques that can be used to promote a high standard of clarity and comprehension throughout our work with our clients, even when emotions and tensions are running high.

Please note: Only NSW barristers or members of the NSW Bar Association can register for CPDs or webinars.