I believe graduate students have the right to be treated as responsible adults. They can make decisions to be in class, undertake projects, prioritize time, and so forth, with minimal input from me. I most cases I will set up the requirements, rules, and class experiences with collaborative input from all concerned. I set out my wants, requirements, and deadlines in the syllabus in writing. The first day of class, and briefly in the beginning of each class, questions are answered to clarify anything that might be confusing, or need further negotiation. Students are then expected to live up to the responsibilities attendant on their rights. I extend respect and consideration to the students and I expect the same in return--as well as their treating each other similarly.
Whether we like the arrangement or not, interacting with each other takes time and energy. We all are human, bringing our subjective reactions to our interactions. I have a "Good Will Account" with each student. You can withdraw from it by asking/demanding attention to your wants/needs; you can add to it by making my life easier. If you go to the account too often or for too much, it can be "overdrawn." Should that situation occur, the next time you go for some good will, you may find you have none left. Occasional requests for flexibility, special consideration, and favors are fine--they are part of the chaos of life. Too many lead to "deficit spending."