Public defenders often face burnout and high turnover due to the emotional and mental toll of working with highly triggered, emotionally volatile clients. These tensions are a symptom of a deeper issue: a lack of communication skills needed to navigate inherent client distrust and systemic conflict. This breakout session will provide a foundational framework of effective communication principles designed specifically for the unique challenges of public defense. With proven results from training public defenders across Ohio, this training will teach participants how to leverage emotional intelligence to de-escalate tense situations, set clear boundaries, and regulate their own emotions to build trust with their clients, coworkers, and other legal professionals. By practicing these skills through live interactive exercises and real-life scenarios, attendees will be able to move beyond conflict to build genuine trust and connection. This enables them to not only reduce personal stress and job dissatisfaction but, more importantly, to create a safe space for clients to share their stories. The session is a critical opportunity for defenders to expand their narrative-building skills by truly recognizing and respecting the different voices and viewpoints of the people they serve.

• Upon completion, participants will be able to utilize a framework of effective communication to build trust and turn client conflict into a trusting, productive team connection.
• Upon completion, participants will be able to apply de-escalation techniques and emotional regulation principles to navigate emotionally charged client interactions.
• Upon completion, participants will be able to set a foundation of trust with their clients from their very first meeting.