The group will recommend appropriate regulatory responses to workplace incidents
The Law Society of British Columbia has established a Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Task Force to address workplace bullying and harassment in the legal profession.
The group will recommend appropriate regulatory responses to bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Natasha Tony chairs the task force, and Cheryl D'Sa is vice chair.
The members of the task force include:
The BC Law Society pointed out that 37 percent of workers have been victims of bullying, as per a Workplace Bullying Institute study. Of these, 57 percent are women – in particular, women in their forties were targeted. Perpetrators were typically those in positions of authority attacking seasoned employees.
The International Bar Association also reported that 57 percent of bullying cases were not reported out of fear of retaliation and the belief that workplace bullying was common. Over 60 percent of bullied respondents exited workplaces that did not offer support.
“Intimidation, belittling comments, excessive criticism and even physical aggression create an atmosphere of fear and stress, leading to diminished confidence, reduced job satisfaction and long-term harm to legal professional’s mental well-being,” the Law Society said in a statement.
The legal regulator offered three strategies through which law firms could limit workplace bullying:
The Law Society also invited lawyers, articled students, law students and legal employers’ support staff to contact the equity advisor or refer to the Advice Decision-Making Assistant page on its website.
“A commitment to well-being, accountability and fairness is essential for a thriving legal profession. By addressing workplace bullying, firms can improve job satisfaction, protect employees’ mental health and foster a more productive and reputable work environment,” the Law Society said.
