Possible Explanations for Less Civility in the Legal Profession 1. Fewer repeat dealings (because of larger bar) with the same opposing lawyers means less reason to try to preserve a good relationship in the hope that it might prove beneficial in a future dealing. 2. A more bottom-line mentality with more emphasis placed on competition and less emphasis placed on professionalism. 3.  Reduced prestige and self-esteem in the profession. 4.  Ostracism for bad conduct is a less effective tool for combating incivility than it used to be.