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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 may be in lieu of 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
Richard Carlton, Deputy Director
Lawyer Assistance Program
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