March 2008

What’s Ahead for Lawyers and the WSBA Lawyer Services Department

by Barbara Harper

The practice of law continues to change in Washington. Many attorneys now face technological, managerial, and regulatory challenges which did not exist when they began their practice. Others are looking to balance their personal lives with professional responsibilities. The Washington State Bar Association’s Lawyer Services Department (LaSD) is currently taking a close look at what new lawyers and those approaching their “second season of service” (lawyers having practiced for more than half of their lives) will require from the department over the next few years.

In response to the stress-laden, break-neck pace of the average law office, both new and seasoned lawyers are asking: “Are there alternatives to inordinate numbers of billable hours? How can I have a successful practice without neglecting my personal life?” Experienced lawyers are exploring options for a future which might include pro bono or other volunteer community activities. New lawyers are seeking alternate work options such as law-related nonlawyer positions. Both experienced attorneys and those new to law are exploring legal practices that bring about not only high-quality professional service to their clients, but also maximum personal satisfaction.

In a culture addicted to speed, there appears to be a shift in attitude for some in the profession. These lawyers are asking for guidance in making their practices work for them instead of the other way around. It is a goal of the LaSD to encourage lawyers who are seeking personal and professional balance to consider shifting gears, to learn to relax without giving up their individuality or their practice. We are aware that some lawyers find cerebral activities more relaxing than a massage or a day at a spa. We encourage them to identify and mobilize their energy and intrinsic values to stimulate personal and professional growth.

Creating career satisfaction and a balanced personal life may mean running a tighter ship in the office so one can spend more leisure time with family and friends. The services offered by the programs of the Lawyer Services Department are:

• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
• Law Office Management (LOMAP)
• Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP)
• Professional Responsibility Program (PRP)

Using these services, lawyers can create sound business plans, keep accounts in order, learn and use computer programs to the benefit of their practices, understand how to manage staff, know the law and the rules that govern the practice, and learn how to create a balanced life.

As we embark upon the next five years of service, the LaSD will be listening to lawyers as they explore what reaching senior status or just arriving in the practice means. Our task will be to assist them in creating career satisfaction by looking outside the box for new and creative ways to practice, run their businesses, and enjoy their leisure time.

Barbara Harper, MA, LMHC, LMFT, is director of the Lawyer Services Department. She has been with the WSBA since the inception of the Lawyer Assistance Program in 1987. She is particularly interested in enhancing LaSD services to lawyers and judges who are beginning their careers and those who are looking toward transitioning into the second season of their professional lives. You can reach Barbara by calling 206-727-8265, or 800-945-9722, ext. 8265, or e-mailing barbarah@wsba.org.