Alcohol and drug abuse/addiction, and mental health problems affect approximately 10% of the general populations. These percentages are even greater when observed in such professional fields as the practice of law. Recent estimates state 15%-18% of judges and lawyers struggle with these health concerns.
The overachieving nature of many judges and lawyers, their enormous workloads, and the daily pressures often lead to chronic stress. Some escape from daily pressures through the use of alcohol and drugs; others develop stress related mental and physical illness. Recent reports have shown that a majority of disciplinary problems involve chemical dependency or emotional stress. All too often the social stigma associated with these illnesses cause judges or lawyers to go without seeking help. JLAP maintains the firm position that alcohol and drug abuse/addiction and mental health problems are treatable illnesses, not moral failings.
Lawyers in Recovery
Lawyers in Recovery meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 5:30 pm in the JLAP office. Any lawyer in recovery is welcome to attend. For more information, please contact JLAP.
The Arkansas Judges and Lawyer Assistance Program (JLAP) was established by per curiam order in 1999 with the support of the Arkansas Bar Association and the Pulaski County Bar Association. The Arkansas Supreme Court appoints a 9-member committee responsible for financial and program oversight.
The mission of JLAP is
--to protect clients and the general public from impaired lawyers and judges
--to help lawyers, judges and their family members to get assistance for alcohol abuse, alcohol/drug addiction, mental health, physical disability or other trauma related illnesses
--to support judges and lawyers to regain and continue the competent practice of law
--to improve the integrity and reputation of the legal profession
--to educate the bench and the bar about how to identify and assist a colleague
JLAP's mission is to address problems before they jeopardize a lawyer's practice, a judge's career, or a family member's health. JLAP understands that addiction and behavioral problems reach far beyond the workplace, thus the mission includes reduction in ethical violations, malpractice claims, disciplinary actions and medical claims which impact the community as a whole.
Helping judges and lawyers find personal solutions...Now. confidential@arjlap.org 501.907.2529
