How can we improve diversity in the law?
Improving trust and estate law through diversity awareness is crucial for creating a legal framework that respects and accommodates the diverse needs and circumstances of all individuals and families. By fostering inclusivity, cultural competence, and equity within the legal system, we can ensure that trust and estate laws are not only just, but also practical and relevant for the evolving demographics of society. Diversity awareness in the law includes inclusive language and terminology, cultural competence, representation in the workplace, awareness of discrimination, guardianship, advocacy and more. Learn more in this series of videos.
Videos About Diversity and Trust & Estate Law
Planning for a Diverse and Equitable Future is a video series that discusses issues surrounding racism and offers recommendations to combat inequality provided by the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC).
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The Origin of “Grandfathered” and the “Grandfather Clause”
Explore the historical significance of “grandfathered” and “grandfather clause” in U.S. law, notably regarding racial discrimination, and suggestions for change.
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Transgender? How to Change Your Legal Name and Gender Marker on Vital Records.
Attorneys explain to transgender people and their counsel how to change their name and gender on vital records and critical legal documents.
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How to Increase Diversity in the Legal Profession
Practical recommendations for professionals and law firms on increasing and retaining diverse people through mentoring, sponsorship, and recruiting efforts.
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The Importance of Cultural Competence in Estate Planning
Estate lawyers discuss how cultural competence can help trust and estate attorneys be more effective with clients in their increasingly diverse law practices.
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Gender Inequality in the Legal Profession
Explore the persistent challenges of gender inequality in the legal profession and learn about ongoing barriers and efforts to address this crucial issue.
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Systemic Racism in the Legal Profession
A discussion of structural biases and practices in the legal profession that disproportionately disadvantage minority lawyers with recommendations to address.
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Legal Options for Individuals with Special Needs and Disabilities
Overview of options for those with special needs, including alternatives to guardianship, Supported Decision-Making, POA, healthcare proxies, MOLST and more.
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Mentoring Young Lawyers and the Impact of Affinity Bars
Trust and estate lawyers discuss the importance of mentoring young lawyers from diverse backgrounds and encouraging their participation in affinity bars.
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The Fight for Justice, Reparations and Bruce’s Beach
Understand efforts by a pro bono attorney and land-rights activist to return a racially motivated eminent domain property, Bruce’s Beach, to the family’s heirs.
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Breaking the Glass Ceiling at ACTEC
In honor of Women’s History Month, ACTEC looks at our history of inclusion and diversity by interviewing the first women to pave the way in the College.
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Landmark Civil Rights Cases Decided by the Supreme Court
Author and Professor Christopher Schmidt reviews the history of critical Supreme Court civil rights and equality cases that everyone should know.
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Protecting Civil Liberties in America
A discussion of the history of the 1944 Supreme Court case Korematsu v. United States and its relevance to present-day civil liberties.
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An Introduction to Native American Tribal Court
Judge Joseph Wiseman, a tribal court judge, explains the interworking of the court, its jurisdiction, and its importance to Native American law and culture.
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Blind Success: Hiring Visually Impaired and Disabled Lawyers
An ACTEC Fellow describes his journey as a blind lawyer: lessons learned, job support, and recommendations for law firms hiring individuals with disabilities.