Help for the Helper: The Effects of Trauma and Compassion Fatigue on the Lawyer Who Cares

Many of us were attracted to the legal profession because we care about people and want to help them. Secondary or vicarious trauma can be the cumulative effect of listening to a client or witness relay graphic stories and experiences. Those who experience compassion fatigue tend to take on the pain, suffering and burdens of the people they are helping. It is an exhaustion that is felt physically, emotionally, or mentally and can affect numerous areas of your life, often leaving you feeling numb. The consequences of shrugging it off can be catastrophic.

Join us on August 24 when Mr. Quinn will discuss:
1. The early warning signs of impairment, with special emphasis on stress, burnout, trauma and
compassion fatigue.
2. The free services that Lawyers Assistance Programs provide to lawyers, judges, their family members
and law students.
3. A close look at what barriers exist that prevent lawyers and judges from seeking the help they need
will be provided.
4. The role that education plays in breaking the stigma and fear associated with addiction and mental
illness in the legal profession.
5. How best to approach the impaired individual.