Working With Hearing-Impaired Counsel to Overcome Challenges and Advance Inclusion in the Legal Profession

Guest Melissa Felder Zappala is a litigator with the Washington, D.C., office of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. She has had tremendous success litigating high profile, tech-related, commercial cases and class action suits. She also has a profound hearing disability.  In this episode, Melissa describes her experiences as a hearing-impaired law student and, later, as a litigator. Are you prepared as a litigator to work with counsel with unique needs? Being aware of our differences, along with disclosure and clear communication, are key when working with those with hearing loss. Being clear, concise, and direct can go a long way. Learn how technology, reasonable accommodation, understanding, and collaboration can ensure a level playing field for everyone. Mentioned in this Episode: “Melissa Felder Zappala Publishes Essay on Coming to Terms With Being Deaf in Big Law in ABA’s Litigation Journal,” by Melissa Felder Zappala American Bar Association American Bar Association Litigation Section