President’s Message We Are Professionals by Melissa Bobadilla, OTLA Guardian Did you know that OTLA has a code of conduct? You can find it on OTLA’s website. As OTLANs, when signing up to attend any OTLA event — be it a social gathering, the annual convention or a CLE seminar — we are asked to adhere to this code. I appreciate the code for providing the standards for all members to follow. It serves as a vital reminder we are professionals, and, even in casual settings with family and friends, it’s essential to uphold our standards of conduct. Recently, as I revisited the code, I was reminded that professionalism is something we should aspire to year-round. As you serve your clients and build your practice, here are some helpful reminders: Integrity We all understand the importance of honesty and integrity with our clients, but these values also apply to interactions with colleagues and the court. In law, as in many professions, reputation is key. In Oregon, especially within specialized areas, you will be known by your reputation. Upholding honesty, integrity and professionalism in all interactions helps build a strong reputation. Refrain from ridiculing others, whether in writing or verbally. Disparaging opposing counsel is not the Oregon way. Often, a simple phone call can resolve issues more effectively than emails or messages. Picking up the phone to make phone calls is still okay. Communication How we interact with others sets a tone. Clarity is key when communicating with the court, colleagues, opposing counsel, co-counsel, adjusters and staff. In an era where many are working from home and navigating different time zones, it’s crucial to clearly define and communicate your office hours and working days. This helps others know when they can expect to reach you or your team. Share with others how you prefer to be reached — email, text message, phone. Figure out your preferred method of communication and let others know — including your clients. Responding to emails promptly is crucial. A simple “thank you” or a “get back to you soon” can go a long way on any email you can’t get to right away. Consistency in your response times is equally important — decide whether you will reply within 24 or 48 hours and stick to that standard. Implement a system to manage your communications effectively. Remember, non-responsiveness can come across as unprofessional. Whether you’re working from home or abroad, you have a responsibility to respond in a timely manner. The way we engage with others establishes a vital tone for our professional relationships. Remote Work Environment Maintaining a professional image is essential, even when working remotely. It’s important for clients and colleagues to perceive you as professional, regardless of your physical location. Consider what others see/hear when you’re on a video or phone call and take the time to test your setup. It’s essential to put effort into both the visual and auditory aspects of your environment. For example, on a phone call, make sure your background is quiet and conducive to confidential conversations, particularly when discussing client-attorney matters. If you are holding a video conference call (e.g., WebEx, Zoom, Teams), choose attire that reflects your professionalism, create a tidy and appropriate background that incorporates good lighting. Invest in a quality microphone to ensure your voice is clear, check to make sure you have a strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection to avoid disruptions. Finally, if you share the space with others, such as a home, have a plan in place to ensure your area remains quiet and free from disruptions during meetings. MELISSA BOBADILLA specializes in personal injury law, handling cases ranging from everyday car crashes to catastrophic injuries occurring on or off the job. She has developed a niche in assisting vulnerable clients who have suffered severe injuries or lost loved ones seeking immigration relief. She is a Guardian Club member. Bobadilla is the sole practitioner at Bobadilla Law, PC., 4915 SW Griffith Drive, Ste 200, Beaverton, OR 97005. She can be reached at [email protected] and 503-496-7500. 4 Trial Lawyer | Winter 2025
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