We live in interesting times in which civility in public discourse seems to be on the wane.  Courtesy and civility have the same virtue and importance in our profession as they have in our greater society.  In the legal profession, we are a reflection of the world in which we live, but that does not mean that we cannot lead by example.  Lawyers and judges have an obligation to be positive role models for litigants and observers of our court system.  I would encourage anyone in our profession who cherishes these principles to consider becoming involved in the American Inns of Court.  The Coachella Valley is the home of the Warren Slaughter/Richard Roemer Inn of Court, Chapter 35.  You have to be invited, but the Inns are always looking for new people to bring into its membership to continue to inspire excellence in our profession.  If you are interested in receiving an invitation to the Inn, please ask any of our current Board of Trustees, and we can point you in the right direction.