I hate to be the bearer of bad news but sometimes we just need a drop of truth serum added to our already information soaked minds. With that I must tell you, the legal profession is still a male dominated industry. I know, a big shock it is not. In fact, recent studies published by the American Bar Association revealed men currently make up 63% of the attorney demographic and…drum roll please….Caucasian men make up 85% of that demographic. A surprising 1% drop from last year (inserts eye rolling emoji). The numbers alone demonstrate that your voice as 1. a female in the legal profession and 2. an African American female in the legal profession will likely be ignored. Why? we will leave that question for another day and time because that will involve a history lesson.

So what do we, as female paralegals, do when the numbers demonstrate there is a high chance that your voice will be ignored? Without even factoring in a breakdown of the demographics by age, we can already see the likely possibility that there will be a disconnect between you and your current or future employer. So what does one do?

We don’t give up of course, we don’t get discouraged, we become informed. Being apart of the legal profession is not for the faint of heart. If you are already apart of it, I commend you, I see you and keep up the good work. If you are just entering, welcome be prepared for a few battles but know that you can handle it. Here are a few of my recommends for when you feel you’re being ignored.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Stand Your Ground: There will be many times that your boss will doubt your knowledge of certain facts and that’s okay. If you can affirmatively state without any doubt that you are correct. Don’t doubt yourself or make them feel holier than thou. Be confident and if it helps, cite your source.
• Speak Up: Don’t be afraid to speak up. Literally, if you have to elevate your tone (not scream) then do so. Just because you do not have those three little letters behind your name, does not make you inferior. If for any reason, an attorney is not listening to you, speak up. Your job is to be their right hand (wo)man. If anything, they should be confident enough in you to listen. If not, that’s on them.
• C.Y. A: Yes, always come with the hardcore proof, email and document every single incidence in which you have been ignored. I suggest keeping a journal or simply send an email to the person ignoring you. Flood their inbox if necessary. The more you build your case, the easier it will be for them to see the problem at hand.
• Suggest a Meeting: Calendar a one on one meeting. Explain to them in that meeting that you are not being heard and bring your proof. I mean, you are in the legal field so you know if there is no evidence, there is no case. State your issue clearly and calmly.
• Smile: Last, It’s an oldie but goodie. Smile. Do not think for one second that you are not important, do not become disheartened. If you’ve had to repeat yourself several times, smile. Don’t linger on the issue because they are not.

Of course, every situation calls taking action in the form that is best suited for your beliefs and personality. Always follow your gut and make the decision that works best for you.