Sponsored by Husch Blackwell LLP

The Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity defines implicit bias as “the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner.” According to the Kirwan Institute, “[t]hese biases, which encompass both favorable and unfavorable assessments, are activated involuntarily and without an individual’s awareness or intentional control.” Researchers have found that implicit biases can impact many aspects of an individual’s life. For the bankruptcy attorney, it is imperative to consider whether implicit bias affects her day-to-day interactions with clients. This session will highlight studies confirming the pervasiveness of implicit bias, as well as empirical research establishing its influence on bankruptcy proceedings. The session will also provide techniques for reducing and/or eliminating the impact of implicit bias.