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Background
i.] One APP (woman) seems to have decided that I, for some reason, owe HER the very chair I which I am sitting, if at all I get any place to sit in the courtroom. She never asks any intern sitting around me, but expects me to give her my chair EVERY time. I do that to keep peace, but I feel she is doing this only as a bullying tactic. Every time we are in the same court room, library, or Bar Room, this obnoxious woman literally hunts me down, demanding a seat.
ii.] I am rather petite-lady, and unfortunately am baby-faced. (I believe this is relevant information)
iii.] I don't even handle criminal matters as such, so I am absolutely certain that she does not know me. Add to that, I am at the 3-5 PQE stage. Naturally, I have been around enough to be a face somewhere in memory, but obviously, and in all seriousness, not important enough for an already ego-laden around PQE 10 -15 to treat with even basic courtesy.
iii.] Those regularly appearing or otherwise keeping abreast with the sitting list would know that the present sitting isn't exactly a civil - criminal divide.
iv.] I have no nexus with this woman, nor does my (by experience, not designated) senior. I keep to myself, as much as possible. Obviously if I see someone truly of advanced age, or designated Seniors, or other seniors I personally know, I offer them a seat. These people, including designated Seniors who do not particularly know me even by face; at least as basic courtesy, say a small thanks. Not that they have to, but they do. Not just to me, but to anyone who does this. But this woman? NOPE. NADA. NEVER. It is this entitled attitude which infuriates me.
v.] This has happened on multiple ocassions, as indicated above, and happened again today, prompting this post.
Questions
A. Is this a bullying tactic or am I over-analysing things?
B. If this is indeed bullying what steps should I take to tackle her?
C. Any other relevant insights would be appreciated.
just speak it, she wont repeat it next time.
The reaction to your no will determine escalation.
Yes. You are dealing with a bully. But you will be dealing with these types for a while. Kudos for recognising. However, unlike jail - you ain't anyone's bizytach. So please use mind while dealing with this moron.