Lawyer Assistance Program
Senate Bill 479 (Burton) created
the Lawyer Assistance Program, substantially expanding State Bar
aid to attorneys with substance abuse or mental health problems.
Thriving in a sometimes challenging profession? Are you an attorney who has found ways to enjoy your career despite all the stress and the challenges of balancing work and family obligations? If so, the LAP would like to hear from you.
We invite you to share personal strategies and suggestions for coping successfully with a legal practice. Please send an e-mail to lap@calbar.ca.gov, or fax to 415-538-2356. The names of members who respond will be kept confidential. Calendar Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP) Oversight meeting calendar.
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The mission of the Lawyer Assistance
Program (LAP) is to enhance public protection, maintain the integrity
of the legal profession, and support recovering attorneys in their
rehabilitation and competent practice of law.
The services previously provided
by the Lawyers Personal Assistance Program (LPAP) are now offered
as part of the comprehensive services of the LAP. In addition
to those existing services addressing stress, burnout and other
personal issues, the LAP now offers individual counseling, referral
assistance, consultations for rehabilitation, and private peer
support groups.
The program also works with family
members, friends, colleagues, and judges who wish to obtain help
for an impaired attorney.
There are three main components
to the program, all of which are strictly confidential:
- Short-term Counseling -- When you call 800-341-0572
a LAP consultant will be available to answer your questions and
address your concerns about any personal problem negatively impacting
your work performance.
The consultant can arrange up to two free counseling sessions
for you with a professional in your area who specializes in assisting
attorneys with personal impairments.
- Career Counseling -- If you are experiencing any challenges
with your career, call 800-341-0572 and a LAP
consultant can arrange up to two free counseling sessions with
a career counselor who specializes in assisting attorneys who
wish to make a positive career change.
- Supportive Recovery
Program -- Any attorney
challenged with substance abuse or mental illness should contact
the Lawyer Assistance Program at 877-LAP 4 HELP (877-527-4435),
to gain extensive support and expert guidance with recovery efforts.
This program offers long-term structure and peer support. Attorneys
may self-refer into this program or may be referred as the result
of an investigation or disciplinary proceeding.
In some cases, participation in
the LAP may assist with disciplinary action. Participation is
absolutely confidential as mandated by law. No information concerning
participation in the program will be released without written
consent from the attorney.
For additional information, call
877-LAP 4 HELP (877-527-4435) or e-mail LAP@calbar.ca.gov
ALL CALLS ARE
CONFIDENTIAL
Janis Thibault, Director
Pam Poley, Clinical Director
Lawyer Assistance Program
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