MORE ABOUT LAPs

“We’re From The Bar, And We’re Here To Help You”, Lawyer Assistance Programs, by John W. Clark Jr., American Bar Association: GPSOLO “ Bumps in the Road II” Vol. 21, Number 7, October / November 2004

There are times in life, usually times of crisis, when a friendly face is welcomed with relief and gratitude. Sometimes it’s the face of someone we know personally who is willing to do what she can to comfort and console us. Sometimes it’s the face of someone whose familiarity with crises and expertise in such situations is much needed and appreciated. Sometimes it’s the face of someone we’ve never met and who is not a trained professional, but someone who nonetheless has been through exactly what we are going through and is willing to take some time, lend a friendly ear, and offer advice or words of encouragement. A Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP) is, in many ways, a friendly fireman—not there to judge, only to help put out the fire.
   
Common Questions for LAPs, by Bonnie Waters, Jeff Fortgang, and Nancy Brown, American Bar Association: GPSOLO “Bumps in the Road II” Vol. 21, Number 7, October / November 2004

How can I overcome my lifelong habit of procrastination? What can I do about my partner who is developing a serious drinking problem? How can I breathe new life into my declining practice? How can I get myself organized? Why do I always feel overwhelmed? How can I deal with my overbearing boss? I think I’ve made the wrong career choice—now what? Why does my mood change so dramatically for no apparent reason?

Today’s lawyer assistance program (LAP), unlike its forebears that focused solely on alcohol/drug abuse, may be able to help with a full spectrum of personal and professional dilemmas such as those posed above. The lawyer who can ask these questions has successfully negotiated the first hurdle: admitting a problem. Too often, lawyers, comfortable in the role of trained helper and problem solver, tend to ignore their personal predicaments or attempt do-it-yourself solutions, until small problems become major threats to their careers and well-being.

Why on Earth Would I Call a LAP? by Rebecca Nerison, American Bar Association: GPSOLO “ Bumps in the Road  III ” Vol.23, Number 8, December 2006

Lawyers are human. Humans have problems. Lawyers have clients. Lawyers with problems can create problems for their clients. That’s why lawyer assistance programs (LAPs) exist: to prevent or mitigate damage to lawyers’ lives, careers, and clients.