• videocam On-Demand Webinar
  • signal_cellular_alt Beginner
  • card_travel Ethics and Specialty Credits
  • schedule 90 minutes

Substance Use and Mental Health in the Legal Profession: Navigating Ethical and Legal Considerations

Interacting With Colleagues Struggling With Addiction and Mental Health Challenges

$197.00

This course is $0 with these passes:

CLE
ALL
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About the Course

Introduction

This CLE course will provide counsel with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively interact with colleagues facing substance abuse challenges, fostering a supportive and productive work environment. 

Description

Substance abuse and mental health issues are prevalent in the legal profession, affecting attorneys' performance, well-being, and professional relationships. These issues can lead to decreased productivity, ethical violations, and strained professional relationships. The high stress nature of legal work, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, often exacerbates these problems. Attorneys must be equipped to recognize the signs of substance abuse and mental health issues in peers and colleagues, understand their implications, and respond appropriately.

Addressing these issues requires a compassionate and informed approach. Attorneys struggling with substance abuse or mental health problems may be reluctant to seek help due to fear of judgment or professional repercussions. It is crucial for colleagues and supervisors to create an environment that encourages open dialogue, provides access to resources, and supports recovery. Understanding the legal and ethical considerations involved in these interactions is essential for maintaining a respectful and compliant workplace.

Listen as our authoritative panel provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges associated with substance abuse and mental health issues in the legal profession. The panel will also address legal and ethical considerations, relevant Model Rules of Professional Conduct, and state bar ethics opinions.

Credit Information

  • This 90-minute webinar is eligible in most states for 1.5 CLE credits.


  • Live Online


    On Demand

Date + Time

  • event

    Tuesday, July 29, 2025

  • schedule

    1:00 p.m. ET./10:00 a.m. PT

I. Introduction

A. Prevalence in the legal profession

B. Impact on performance and relationships

II. Recognizing the signs

A. Behavioral and physical indicators

B. Common mental health disorders and substance abuse patterns

III. Legal and ethical considerations

A. Confidentiality and privacy concerns

B. Ethical obligations and professional standards (Model Rules and state bar ethics opinions)

IV. Effective intervention strategies

A. Approaching colleagues with compassion

B. Providing access to resources and support

C. Encouraging open dialogue and recovery

V. Creating a supportive work environment

A. Fostering a culture of understanding and support

B. Policies and practices that promote well-being

The panel will review these and other key issues:

  • Gaining a deeper understanding of substance abuse and mental health issues in the legal profession
  • Effective intervention techniques to support colleagues facing these challenges
  • Conducting interactions in accordance with legal and ethical standards, including the Model Rules and state bar ethics opinions
  • Creating a workplace culture that encourages openness and recovery
  • Resources that support mental health and addiction recovery