The practice of law is one of the most demanding professions, and requires a lot to be successful. It necessitates much investment, such as time, emotion and mental endurance. It can be difficult to attain, or maintain balanced living. This can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, burnout, suicidality, and many other problems. Regardless of area(s) of, or type of practice, all attorneys are susceptible to experiencing problems related to mental health. ALAP is here to address those and help find a path to balance and well-being.

The longer struggles go unaddressed, the more challenging they become. If left unchecked, personal strife will most likely transition into professional struggles, even to the point of disciplinary action being taken. We want to provide assistance to avoid that progression.

Because asking for help is an incredibly difficult task, sometimes the problematic behaviors and impaired judgement have already led to a bar complaint or disciplinary action. ALAP can help with that, too. We work with attorneys, and will hopefully be in a position to advocate, speaking to the efforts that they have put forth to overcome the problematic behaviors and struggles and demonstrate progress. It is NEVER too late to get help!

Law school is a stressful endeavor, to say the least. There are frequently worries regarding financial strains, time management and how to balance other responsibilities, pressure to perform, future employment, etc. This can create, or compound, mental and emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression and substance abuse.

ALAP is here to help law students navigate this trying journey, and identify tools and support to improve well-being, by providing healthy coping mechanisms and strategies.

Where there may have been roadblocks in the past that may involve Character and Fitness, ALAP is a valuable resource to help navigate that process. We will work the law students and advocate, when appropriate, for their admission to the Alabama State Bar. The longer a student participates in ALAP, the easier it is to assist in that process.

As ALAP is a confidential program, we do not disclose participation to faculty or staff at the law school, nor to the Admissions Department at the Alabama State Bar, without permission, and only for the purpose of advocacy.

Now more than ever, judges are faced with their own set of professional hurdles. They contend with the challenge of making the right decision in cases, and they make decisions in cases that affect people’s lives, especially parents and young children in custodial and visitation cases.

Balancing work and family obligations; managing dockets and case load levels, including timely rulings in cases; and handling difficult/disgruntled parties, witnesses and/or attorneys are just a few of the stressors judges face daily.

Not all clients will need this approach. This option provides accountability when substance abuse or dependence is involved. It is also very helpful if someone is facing or dealing with disciplinary issues. It allows ALAP to advocate and show growth in recovery.

ALAP offers in-person lawyer support groups in some areas as well as virtual recovery and wellness meetings.

ALAP has a state appointed committee of volunteer attorneys and judges that serve as mentors. Most of them have personal experience with mental health struggles and share how they have overcome their personal struggling while maintains a successful legal profession. As a part of the ALAP, they have the same requirement of confidentiality and will not discuss a client’s involvement in ALAP.

ALAP has a long list of licensed clinical professionals and treatment centers with years of experience in working with legal professionals. They have all been vetted by ALAP.

ALAP will advocate for clients, if desired and appropriate. We will provide support to law students who may be facing Character and Fitness hearings, as well as attorneys and judges who are experiencing disciplinary hearings.