Guilty.
I often wear headphones and listen to music while doing tasks such as entering time. It's not the same as if I'm handling a court filing or preparing a pleading shell. And it doesn't slow me down.
I'm always mindful to make sure that I look up constantly and that my music isn't so loud that I don't respond when someone (especially an attorney) is talking to me.
However, I do take exception to some people who wear noise cancelling headphones at work. If we're on the same team and sitting right next to each other, I shouldn't have to scream your name or get up and tap you on the shoulder (and startle the heck out of you) to tell you that I need you for something (work-related).
There's a time and place for everything. They call it 'work' for a reason.
And while I love to enjoy a good podcast or "beach read," as much as the next person, I certainly don't expect the firm to pay me to do it.
Team work, people.
That is all.
