Three Commissioners on the Evolution of Legal Professionalism, Generational Change and the Enduring Power of a Lawyer's Word
Legal ethics attorney Trisha Rich was interviewed for a 2Civility Commissioner Spotlight feature recognizing her service as a commissioner for the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism and her work advancing professional responsibility initiatives statewide. She reflected on how the definition of professionalism has broadened during her tenure to more directly address lawyer well-being and diversity, equity and inclusion, while also confronting the growing ethical challenges created by technology and generative artificial intelligence (AI) in everyday practice. Ms. Rich also highlighted the commission's impact through early-career programming and mentoring, as well as its groundbreaking work on bullying in the profession and leadership development within the organization. She additionally shared how involvement in bar associations and other professional organizations has helped her become a better lawyer.
"Bar and community service have been central to my professional life, and I feel fortunate to have served in a number of leadership roles within the legal profession and the community," she said. "These experiences have been deeply meaningful, both personally and professionally. They have sharpened my leadership skills, expanded my network and given me the opportunity to better understand the wide range of issues and perspectives that shape our profession and the world around us."