Today I had a hearing at the courthouse on a rather large case. It was a hearing on a motion to dismiss. The case is actually three different cases revolving around a single incident and essentially the same parties. There were six attorneys present for the hearing. My client didn't really have a dog in this fight, which I why I was at the courthouse instead of the partner on the case.
So there are six attorneys. I'm the youngest/least experienced by approximately 20 years. I'm also the only female. This doesn't bother me (except for when they tell mildly inappropriate stories and then feel the need to apologize for hurting my womanly sensibilities...but whatever).
There is one problem...
You see, while chivalry in general might be dead (this is what I hear, at least), it is alive and kicking in Kansas.
No matter where we were going, the other attorneys always made sure to hold the door open for me and then everyone follows me. This means that I got on the elevator first and then also needed to get off first (awkward, but doable). it means that I went into the judges chambers first. I went into the courtroom first. I left the courtroom first as we left to sit down and workout some deadlines. I'm always first. Again, I don't mind the whole door holding thing...
What I mind is this--generally speaking, I DON'T KNOW WHAT I'M DOING! I'm still learning the ropes around the courthouse and I'm trying to watch the other attorneys to figure out where to go, etc. It is hard to follow their lead when I'M ALWAYS FIRST. This lead to a lot of awkward moments where I walked into or out of a room and then just stood off to the side until someone else came out who I could follow...
Awkward.
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