Garcia & Gibbs, LLP is proud to announce that firm partner Stacy Garcia will serve as a panelist for the Civility Matters: Interactive Lessons in Equating Professionalism and Success program hosted by the Blakely Advocacy Institute at the University of Houston Law Center. The event brings together leaders from the bench and bar to discuss the critical role that professionalism and civility play in successful legal practice.
The Civility Matters program was created by the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) and the ABOTA Foundation to reinforce an important principle within the legal profession: attorneys can be both zealous advocates for their clients and civil, professional participants in the justice system. The program is presented nationwide through law schools, bar associations, and ABOTA chapters, providing future and current attorneys with practical guidance on maintaining professionalism while effectively representing their clients.
The University of Houston Law Center panel will feature an accomplished group of speakers, including members of the judiciary and experienced trial attorneys from both sides of the civil bar. Stacy will have the opportunity to share practical lessons from her litigation practice, discuss the value of professionalism in advocacy, and offer insights to law students preparing to enter the profession. The event is highlighted in the program announcement.
As Treasurer of the Houston Chapter of ABOTA and an active trial lawyer, Stacy has long been committed to promoting the values of professionalism, integrity, and civility in the courtroom. She believes that credibility with opposing counsel, judges, clients, and juries is built not only through skill and preparation but also through respect and professionalism.
"Some of the most effective advocates I know are also among the most professional," Garcia said. "Civility is not a weakness. It strengthens our profession, improves advocacy, and helps preserve public confidence in the legal system."
Programs such as Civility Matters are particularly valuable for law students because they provide real-world examples of how professionalism can influence case outcomes, client relationships, negotiations, and courtroom appearances. Through panel discussions and interactive dialogue, students gain practical insight into navigating difficult situations while maintaining the highest ethical standards.
Garcia & Gibbs, LLP is honored to support initiatives that invest in the future of the legal profession and encourage excellence in advocacy. We congratulate the University of Houston Law Center, the Blakely Advocacy Institute, and ABOTA for continuing to bring these important conversations to the next generation of trial lawyers.
We are proud of Stacy's continued leadership within ABOTA and her commitment to mentoring future attorneys while advancing the principles of professionalism and civility that strengthen the practice of law.
