Happy Effective Lawyer

Our mission is to increase happiness and productivity in the legal field. Lawyers can effectively learn new soft skills, best practices, and healthy habits. Scientific evidence shows that peak performance and contentment are directly correlated. Research also shows that educational courses, including individualized e-learning, can enhance professional development and happiness.

Happy Effective Lawyer has designed a diverse curriculum for busy lawyers who wish to develop personally and professionally. We teach the soft skills and core competencies that are most relevant to the legal profession, while also providing a wealth of practical insights and helpful resources. Happy Effective Lawyer includes online courses, onsite workshops, a blog, e-books, publications, field surveys, and educational outreach. 

Happy Effective Lawyer does not sell or distribute your contact, email, or other information to any third parties, or solicit you directly. To maximize learning we do not allow ads, pop-ups, or other distractions.

Robert A. Creo, Principal

For over 40 years I have found happiness in being a lawyer. However, many other lawyers are unhappy with their profession, so I spent several years researching the dynamics that lead to success and contentment. I am passionate about both law and education, and I created Happy Effective Lawyer to help all lawyers experience this same sense of joy and career fulfillment.

I am a mediator, arbitrator, and educator. I have served over 5000 days as a neutral and lead negotiator in thousands of complex disputes. I was appointed as an independent hearing officer for the United States Senate Select Committee on Ethics with the Office of Fair Employment Practices. I serve as a mediator for the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS-TAS). In 2007, I earned a Graduate Certificate in International Mediation: Maximizing Prospects for Success, from the United States Institute of Peace in Washington, DC. I earned a JD from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis in 1977 and a BA from Brandeis University in 1974.  

I publish and present extensively on topics such as ADR, decision-making, negotiations, and soft skills. I have taught and trained lawyers throughout North America, Europe, and Africa. I have served as an adjunct professor for multiple universities, including the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University School of Law. The Pennsylvania Lawyer magazine published my column The Effective Lawyer, and CPR Alternatives journal publishes my monthly Master Mediator column. I am committed to furthering future generations of mediators, and I co-founded The International Academy of Mediators and Mediators Beyond Borders.

I know the good work that lawyers do for others enhances themselves, their families, and the legal profession. Please join me in this endeavor to improve career satisfaction for yourself and your colleagues!