Recent Stories

LAP, as in the Lawyer’s Assistance Program, is not for the faint hearted or the cowardly. There is nothing I know of that is harder than facing one’s own weaknesses or failings and learning to acknowledge our own strengths. It’s akin to examining oneself in the mirror while naked; often we see only the flaws when we need to be able to see the positive attributes as well.

When I reflect upon my last quarter century as a lawyer one of the most challenging things I faced was practicing law in a way that was healthy for me. The biggest obstacle I had to overcome was my own fairly ridged, idealized image of the way lawyers are “supposed to be”.

Every year, hundreds of lawyers begin to seek out career changes. They either intend to drastically change from their profession or they just want to alter the way they approach their practice. This may seem odd, but of all our workshops, the “What Can You do next with your Law Degree?” has the largest turnout each year.

Just over a year ago, I had everything. A loving wife, great kids, an excellent practice, good partners, a lovely home, good physical health and a leadership role in community affairs.

Not again. I awoke from my liquor-induced sleep with my head pounding, my heart racing, and my remorse completely overwhelming. Not again, I thought. What is wrong with me?

Hello, I’m an alcoholic and this is my story. Why start my story in such a strange way? Because as an alcoholic I have a disease of denial that tries to convince me I don’t have it. I need to remind myself, not you, that I am and always will be an alcoholic.