News & Press

Now available: ISBA bill tracker

Wed, 9 Feb 2022 21:27:13 GMT

During the 2022 legislative session, the ISBA is tracking bills on behalf of various practice areas. In an effort to keep members informed and up to date, a complete list of bills the ISBA is monitoring is now available here.

Secretary of State' office offering free help for redistricting

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 16:38:21 GMT

Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate is offering free software and training sessions to assist local governments with the redistricting process. A total of 81 of Iowa’s 99 counties have signed up to utilize the Esri Redistricting Solution purchased by the Secretary of State’s Office and provided to Iowa cities and counties free of charge.

“Due to the COVID pandemic, the 2020 Census data from the federal government was delayed and that has resulted in drastically shortening Iowa’s reprecincting and redistricting timeline. A process that usually takes 10 months will need to be done in just over two months. Thanks to the software we’re providing, that can be accomplished,” Pate said.

Cities have 60 days and counties have 90 days to complete their maps after the Iowa Legislature approved the new congressional and legislative maps on Oct. 28. New city and county precinct boundaries become effective Jan.15.

Support the LGBTQ+ community year-round

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 17:45:56 GMT

By Gabe WalshCo-Chair, YLD Diversity Committee

Every June, we celebrate pride month. During this month, so many pause to reflect on the history of the LGBTQ+ Movement in the United States, from Stonewall to 2021, and all the ups and downs in between. This Pride Month, I think it’s important to reflect on what we can do, as attorneys, to impact the lives of those who identify as LGBTQ+. As lawyers, we have opportunities to involve ourselves into large scale fights that support LGBTQ+ persons, such as working pro bono on a case that will create substantial change for those in the LGBTQ+ community. However, we can also do things far simpler than that to make a difference.

Maybe one of the attorneys at your office volunteers in another organization that supports LGBTQ+ rights. Perhaps your firm considers how it can develop office policies that are more supportive for attorneys who identify in the LGBTQ+ community. Perhaps you consider training your entire office on ways to improve interacting with LGBTQ+ clients to ensure they feel fully validated, respected, and that they get the true access to legal services and justice they deserve.

While we celebrate Pride this June, we need to fight for our LGBTQ+ friends year-round. If you are looking for concrete action items you can take to make your offices more inclusive for those in the LGBTQ+ as well as other minority communities, check out the Young Lawyers Division Diversity Pledge. If you want to be a part of making our profession more inclusive for all, sign up! Together, we can make meaningful change.

Lawyer Wellness Corner: More on depression

Wed, 2 Jun 2021 18:10:54 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director

Last month, I wrote about potential causes of depression and the scope of the problem (May 5 Wellness Column). In this month's Lawyer Wellness Corner, I am writing about how personality traits can contribute or exacerbate depression. We'll also cover the difference between clinical/major depression and dysthymia, as well as how to help someone with depression.

Personality traits
There are certain personality traits that can indicate someone is more prone to depression. Neuroticism is a long-term tendency to be in a negative or anxious emotional state. Many scientific studies have shown neuroticism to be a predictor of several forms of psychopathology, including substance abuse, mood disorders and anxiety disorders. 

Elements of the stressful and combative nature of the legal profession can exacerbate depression. For example, compartmentalized thinking may help a lawyer with focus, but it can damage relationships. Or, some lawyers struggle with workaholism and don’t have a concept of when “enough is enough," which similarly can impact social relationships.

Clinical/major depression vs. dysthymia
Clinical or major depression is a serious, whole-body illness that affects thinking, feelings, behavior and physical wellness. It affects each person differently, but symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in day-to-day activities, such as work, school or social activities. It impacts a lawyer's work product, ability to focus, meet deadlines and communicate with clients. A diagnosis should be made by a trained and licensed professional based on the symptoms described.

Dysthymia includes symptoms that are less disabling than major depression, but it can also impair functioning and general well-being. You may lose interest in normal daily activities, feel hopeless, lack productivity and have low self-esteem and an overall feeling of inadequacy. Dysthymia can typically be treated with medication and therapy.

Helping someone who is depressed
Doing nothing is not an option. Say something and acknowledge your concern if you have a friend or colleague who appears to be depressed. It is important to share your observations and even point to specific changes in their behavior. Listen with empathy and patience. Encourage them to seek professional help. Importantly, if someone is threatening suicide, call 911.

If you or a colleague need help because of depression, the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program is here for you. Any discussion with me is confidential by Supreme Court Rule. In the past six months, we have had a significant increase in contacts with lawyers who have struggled with depression. There are volunteers with the ISBA Lawyers Helping Lawyers Committee (to whom the confidentiality rule also applies) who have had depression and are willing to be a resource for someone who is struggling. Please reach out.

Hugh Grady
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1533
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org

From the Iowa Lawyer Weekly

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Depression

Wed, 5 May 2021 16:20:32 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director
During the pandemic, the number of lawyers seeking help for depression has increased. But even pre-pandemic, it was surprisingly high. In a 2015 study of lawyers by the ABA Commission on Lawyers Assistance Programs and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, 28 percent reported having issues with depression; 19 percent reported severe anxiety; and 11.5 percent had suicidal thoughts during their careers.

Depression can range from mild to severe. It may present as temporary episodes of sadness, or as a severe and persistent state. It is not something you can “snap out of.” There is no single cause of depression, though a chemical imbalance in the brain can be a factor. There may also be genetic vulnerability or a family history. Stressors or triggers can include social situations, work, family, personality traits, loss, trauma, illness, medications and alcohol/substance abuse.

I have been working with lawyers for 22 years here in Iowa. I practiced law for 18 years prior to that and have worked as an inpatient alcohol and drug counselor. Over this time, I have learned that, in general, it is difficult for lawyers to seek help for depression. It is important to remember that depression is not a sign of weakness and it is not a condition to be ignored. Please reach out if you need help. All communication is confidential.

Hugh Grady, Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1533
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org

From the Iowa Lawyer Weekly

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Humor

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 16:21:05 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director
I have to get allergy shots every three weeks. When I go to get them, I have to stand with my back to the nurse looking at a small blackboard. Every time I go, there is a corny joke written in chalk. I almost always laugh, or at least chuckle. Last Friday, as I was looking at the joke, I started thinking about humor during the pandemic and humor in the practice of law, and I thought I’d do this column. There are no jokes included, as most of mine are of the ribald kind.

Benefits of humor in the pandemic
It may seem odd to think of humor during these difficult times. But studies have shown that humor has the power to reduce fear and anxiety. Humor can help people take back their sense of powerlessness in situations such as the pandemic.

Laughter activates feel-good hormones in the brain and also reduces stress-related hormones. Research indicates that humor benefits both a person’s physical and psychological state. I don’t like getting allergy shots every three weeks, but when I read the corny puns on the blackboard I feel better. Research has also shown that humor has the ability to provide pain relief, help you disengage from distress, lessen anxiety and improve interpersonal communication.

Ways to add humor to your life
There are many websites with ideas of how to ease the stress of COVID-19. They suggest a number of things to help.
• Tune into sitcoms or sketches on YouTube.
• Write a gratitude list.
• Spend time with children and/or pets.
• Remove negativity in your environment.

Try these suggestions or do some research to see what you like. Remember to breathe, and reach out to me if you need help. All communication is confidential.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1522
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Gratitude

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 16:13:58 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director
My favorite description of gratitude is an “affirmation of goodness.” It is a recognition that the source of this goodness comes from outside ourselves. It may come from other people or in a spiritual way as from a higher power.

In my recovery from alcohol and addiction, it is a tool that helps to change the way I view things and to change negativity to an appreciation of the good things in my life. It shifts my mindset and strengthens things that are important to me.

Why is gratitude important now?
Everyone has had some degree of struggle since the pandemic. Some folks are more isolated than others. Families have not been able to get together. Law firms have not been as closely knit as they were pre-pandemic. Socializing has been radically changed. What can follow is the sense of not belonging. Thinking can become negative and expressing gratitude can help.

The practice of gratitude makes it less likely to engage in self-blame. It can help one to feel less lonely and isolated. It has even been shown to aid in developing a stronger immune system and in helping to lower blood pressure.

How to develop a gratitude mindset
It is important to use measurable goals to guide thinking and action. In the 12 Step Recovery process, we describe it as “an attitude of gratitude.”

Choose to express gratitude every day. One method to do this is to take a few minutes and write a gratitude list. It may be difficult at first. You can start small and eventually the list will grow.

Focus on the present, not the past. If you have gratitude for the present moment, you can reframe how you think about your present circumstances. The development of a grateful mindset increases the appreciation of the people who matter the most to you.

Please reach out if you need any help in your journey to wellness.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1522
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org
iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Mindfulness and the practice of law (Part 2)

Wed, 7 Apr 2021 16:21:36 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director
In last week’s column, I described mindfulness as the ability to focus your attention on your inner process and experiences, such as the moment. One of the main goals is to address stress, anxiety and pain in order to become more relaxed.

My own experience with mindfulness comes from my recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction. Two of the suggestions in 12-Step recovery are acceptance and prayer/meditation. I will only address acceptance and meditation in my life.

Acceptance
The concept of acceptance that I like the best is the opening of myself to the realities of life and the ways I have been impacted by my choices in life. I try to accept them as what they were and what they are and use them to grow forward in life. In my recovery. it meant admitting that I am an alcoholic and addict and moving forward toward being clean and sober.

In my life today, I try and use acceptance to understand that I have no control over certain things in my life (e.g. the pandemic), so that instead of fighting against it. I accept it and do the things that are recommended to stay healthy. Acceptance is not a feeling; it is a thought process that one can work to attain.

Meditation
I have previously written about the benefits of meditation in both my recovery and daily life. Meditation has been proven to reduce stress, control anxiety, enhance self-awareness and improve sleep. It also helps cognition and promotes emotional health and well-being.

There are classes on mediation and apps which teach you or guide you through the mediation process.

Resources
Mindfulness in Law Society
ABA Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs

Please contact me for additional resources or for help on your journey to wellness.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1522
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org
iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Mindfulness and the practice of law (Part 1)

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 15:58:32 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director
As lawyers, you know firsthand that the practice of law can be stressful, which has only been exacerbated by the pandemic. Today, I want to talk about mindfulness, and the role it can play in enhancing performance and well-being in times of stress.

What is mindfulness?
Psychology Today defines mindfulness as “a state of active, open attention to the present.” It is described as observing one’s own thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad.

Mindfulness is living in the moment, rather than dwelling on the past or attempting to anticipate the future. It is a way to look at thoughts and feelings in an objective manner. It can be a tool to avoid self-criticism and judgment.

There are two important ingredients to mindfulness - awareness and acceptance. Awareness is the ability to focus one’s attention on inner process and experiences such as the moment. Acceptance is the ability to observe rather than judge and avoid negative streams of thought.

One of the main goals of mindfulness is to address stress, anxiety or pain in order to become more relaxed. In next week’s column, I will discuss the benefits mindfulness practice has provided to me, as well as some ways to practice it together.

As always, the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program is here to help. Please reach out.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1522
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org
iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: How to help a friend or colleague in need

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 19:10:33 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director
Last week in the Lawyer Wellness Corner, I described the signs and symptoms of what a lawyer struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues might look like. Today, I'll explain the best way for you to help a friend or colleague who may be struggling.

First, what might be some barriers for someone seeking help? There are many, including:
1. Not wanting others to find out you need help. This can be for many reasons, such as competition in a firm or in a small town.
2. Other concerns regarding confidentiality or privacy.
3. The belief that, “I can handle it myself.”
4. Feeling of guilt or shame and being perceived as being weak.

So, how can you help someone who isn't comfortable seeking help themselves?
1. The worst thing to do is ignore the problem. When I was visited in my office in 1988, I had no intention of telling someone else or of asking for help myself. I can say without exaggeration that my state of mind was such that I may have gotten to the point of self-harm.
2. Expect that there might be difficulties. The person may not agree they have a problem. They may not want to change what they are doing. Some may fear consequences. Most will feel embarrassed and not want to discuss a personal problem with you.
3. There is no magic formula or easy way to help a person struggling with a mental health or substance use issue. What is most important is to approach the person from a place of concern and care.
4. Fear can be a barrier to asking for help. Acknowledge that fear and be empathetic.
5. Tell the person that you come from a place of concern and care. Concern and care are crucial.
6. Be descriptive, but not accusatory. Explain what you see has changed either physically, mentally, or emotionally. If you have seen a change in work quality or work habits, be specific.

We at the Iowa lawyers Assistance Program and ISBA Lawyers Helping Lawyers Committee are available to help lawyers who are struggling. All of us are ready to offer our experience, strength and hope to others. Any communication with me or the lawyers on the committee is confidential. Don’t hesitate to call me for guidance and help if you are concerned for someone.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1522
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org
iowalap.org

All are welcome for YLD virtual trivia night - Register by March 31

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 00:09:59 GMT

The ISBA Young Lawyers Division (YLD) is inviting all Iowa attorneys and law students to a night of virtual trivia on Thursday, April 8, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. You can sign up with trivia teams of four to seven people or as an individual looking to join with other practicing lawyers in your area.

Sign up can be completed here by March 31. The event is free to register for all participants. However, attorneys are encouraged to make a donation to a legal non-profit of the winning team’s choice. Donations can be made here. A link to join the virtual trivia night will be sent out prior to the event.

Please reach out to Dillon Besser (dbesser@fightingforfairness.com) or Mary Rose Shelley (mshelley@duttonfirm.com) if you have any questions.

From the Iowa Lawyer Weekly

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Lawyers Helping Lawyers (Part 1)

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 22:12:05 GMT

When I was practicing law in Portland, Oregon, I had become alcohol dependent and addicted to illegal drugs. I was full of fear, depressed, anxious and unable to ask for help. I was fortunate that the then-director of the Oregon Attorneys Assistance Program had become aware of me, though not the extent of my problem. He visited me in my office, and I was able to tell him the truth.

Lawyers, as a group, have trouble asking for help for what may be a mental health or substance issue. In Part 1 on this topic of Lawyers Helping Lawyers, I’m going to describe what a lawyer in crisis looks like. In Part 2, I’ll discuss how you can help a colleague or friend about whom you may be concerned. Usually when one becomes either depressed or is abusing alcohol or drugs, there is a change over time. Look for these symptoms.

Signs of Depression
• Persistent sad, anxious or empty feelings
• Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helpless
• Irritability, restlessness
• Fatigue and decreased energy and loss of appetite
• Overeating, or appetite loss
• Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

Signs of Substance Abuse Disorder
• Feeling of exhilaration and excess confidence
• Increased alertness
• Increased energy and restlessness
• Behavior changes or aggression
• Rapid or rambling speed
• Dilated Pupils
• Confusion, delusions and hallucinations
• Irritability, anxiety or paranoia

These are just some of the symptoms. Remember, it is usually a change over time. Please reach out if you or someone you know needs help.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1533
515-360-1668
hugh@iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Anxiety

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 15:39:10 GMT

Generalized anxiety is prevalent in the legal community. In the 2015 survey of lawyers by the ABA Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, 19 percent reported incidences of severe anxiety, 28 percent reported depression and 11.5 percent reported suicidal thoughts during their careers. Anxiety begins in law school with 14 percent reporting severe anxiety and 23 percent reporting mild to moderate anxiety.

Some of the symptoms include:
• Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge
• Becoming easily fatigued
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Muscle tension
• Sleep disturbance

Anxiety, worry or physical symptoms can cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other areas of functioning. Frequently, anxiety can cause excessive use of alcohol or drugs to cope with the negative feelings.

Solutions
Consult with your family doctor, counselor or other professional to see if you may have a diagnosis of anxiety disorder. There are medications to treat the condition.

Be honest with yourself and take a personal inventory. Look at your daily activities. Have an idea of where you are and where you want to go. Schedule time for what is important to you. Practice saying “no” and “yes,” and really mean it. Get organized. Use effective stress management methods. Mediation is one of the best tools. There are many different methods and ways to meditate. There are apps for mediation as well as groups and classes for meditation techniques. Finally, eat right, get enough sleep and exercise. And, please reach out to us if you need help.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1533
515-360-8850
hugh@iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Problem drinking

Tue, 2 Mar 2021 22:02:41 GMT

Unfortunately, this pandemic has brought forth long periods of isolation for many of us. Whether it be working from home or lack of overall social contact, isolation can contribute to problem drinking.

The difference between problem drinking and alcoholism is that alcoholics are physically and mentally dependent on and addicted to alcohol. Problem drinkers can go for long periods of time without drinking and can abstain from alcohol. But when problem drinkers do drink it causes a negative issue in their life or someone else’s life. Some examples may include:

Missing work or other important obligations
Avoidance of family and friends
Feelings of depression
Feeling angry or violent
Taking risks you normally wouldn’t
Loss of friendships or close relationships

Problem drinkers may become very defensive if confronted about their drinking. This is because both alcoholism and problem drinking awareness may be subconscious and cause feelings of guilt.

If you think you may be drinking more than you should, you should be aware that there are stages of alcohol dependence. Problem drinking can mean you are on the way to dependence.

The Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program has volunteers who are in recovery from alcoholism. We are here to help in any way we can. Your communication with us is confidential. Please reach out.

Hugh Grady
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1533
515-360-8850
hugh@iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Resilience, optimism and gratitude

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:44:46 GMT

By Hugh Grady, ILAP Director

As I wrote last week, resilience is the ability to respond to stress in a healthy, adaptive way such that personal goals are achieved at minimal psychological and physical cost. It is the ability to persist in the face of challenges. You can become more resilient by practicing optimism and gratitude.

Practicing optimism

Optimism is choosing how to think about why things happen. It is a disposition toward believing the future is bright and that things will work out. It is not necessarily a "pollyannish" way of thinking; It is a tendency toward a positive explanatory style. It is how we explain causes of bad events - a habit of thought. How we explain adversity makes us either prey to helplessness or mentally resilient.

Let’s say you lose a big case, or you have a negative result in whatever area you practice. You have a choice. You can look at the result realistically and perhaps conclude that this “is just one case” or “I didn’t prepare enough” or “we had really bad facts and it wasn’t to be.” That is a healthy, optimistic way to think. An unhealthy, negative way might be to conclude “I can’t seem to do anything right” or “I’m stupid and I’m out of my league." These are ways of self-blaming rather than practicing optimism.

Optimism practice is seeing the bright side of things. If done daily, it increases engagement in life and decreases dysfunctional thinking. It has been found that even people pessimistic by nature practicing optimism benefited by showing fewer depressive symptoms afterward.

Practicing gratitude

Gratitude is an attitude, not a feeling. It leads to higher levels of positive emotions and brings more joy, optimism and happiness. Using gratitude in one’s life also promotes stronger immune system and lower blood pressure. And in these difficult times with isolation, it helps one to feel less lonely and isolated. Here are some resources to learn about practicing gratitude in your life:

Forbes: 8 Ways To Have More Gratitude Every Day

Positive Psychology: 13 Most Popular Gratitude Exercises & Activities

Mindful.org: How to Practice Gratitude

Please reach out if you need help. The Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program is here for you.

Hugh Grady, Director

Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program

(800) 243-1533

(515) 360-1866

hugh@iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Tips for dealing with the pressures of the practice of law, Part 4

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 18:02:55 GMT

In recent weeks, I have discussed some mental health issues impacting lawyers. Generalized anxiety is one of these. Generalized anxiety disorder was already prevalent in the legal community, and the current crisis arising from the pandemic has exacerbated feelings of anxiety. Most of my calls during the past year are from folks whose chief issue is anxiety or stress. In this column, as I have in previous Wellness Corners, I will discuss some ways to cope.

1. Develop or maintain a sense of spirituality

Spirituality doesn’t necessarily mean religion. It is a part of overall well-being. It is inherent in being connected to others and connected to something greater than yourself from which you can find guidance and direction. If a particular religion or spiritual practice works for you, put it into action in your life. Nature may be spiritual for you. If so, become a part of it regularly. Whatever you choose, it will help you gain perspective on your life and will help reduce anxiety and worry.

2. Become resilient

Resilience is the ability to respond to stress in a healthy, adaptive way such that personal goals are achieved at minimal psychological and physical cost. It is the ability to persist in the face of challenges and to bounce back from adversity. (U.S. Army Resilience Program).

Resilience bolsters competence. One can better tolerate stress, uncertainty and adversity. It helps to speed recovery after setbacks or losses. It helps to diminish anxiety, depression, substance use and PTSD.

Next week I’ll discuss how to develop resilience with some practical tips. As always, please reach out if you need help.

Hugh Grady

Director, Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program

hugh@iowalap.org

800-243-1533

515-360-1668

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Tips for dealing with the pressures of the practice of law, Part 3

Tue, 9 Feb 2021 20:48:21 GMT

By Hugh Grady, Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program Director

Last week, I wrote about some of the tools to deal with the pressures of the practice of law. The following are two more methods for coping.

Develop interests outside the law
Try to develop interests outside of your work. Granted, the pandemic has forced all of us to change how, where and when we work. And at this time of the year, outside activities are limited by the weather. So, begin by trying something small. If you have the time, try volunteering. By doing this, you are taking the focus off yourself and placing it onto others. By working with others, you will begin to create a new perspective and feel better about yourself.

Get proactive
The practice of law can wear you out. Do things that are good for you. Physical well-being should be a priority. See your doctor and get a physical. Watch your alcohol consumption. Simply eating well and getting enough sleep can make a huge difference to your mental health.

These may seem like obvious things to do, but it is not the nature of many people to look at and address what is contributing to burnout. If you’re feeling burnout, don’t wait to address it. If you need to, see a therapist or your physician. Or reach out and contact the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program.

Hugh Grady, Director
Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
800-243-1533
515-360-8850
hugh@iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Tips for dealing with the pressures of the practice of law, Part 2

Wed, 3 Feb 2021 07:14:50 GMT

In last week’s column, I wrote a bit about the pressure lawyers try to cope with in the practice of law. Here are some simple things you can do to reduce the pressure.

Acknowledgment
Take an honest inventory of yourself and admit that you are indeed stressed from the pressures you feel. Many lawyers feel the need for perfection, something that can begin in law school and continue into the practice of law. According to attorneys Jeena Cho and Karen Gifford in their 2016 book, The Anxious Lawyer, striving for perfection may come from fear of failure. It is impossible to eliminate job-related anxiety, but you can find ways to deal with it.

Let others know
Once aware of the stressors, let your partners, spouse or a close friend know what’s going on with you. When you recognize and admit the pressures, tell someone. Eventually, work pressures start to creep into your personal life and impact your perspective in a negative way.

Incorporate de-stressors at work
Meditation is a proven method of stress relief and there are many different ways to meditate. Some, but not all, come from religious beliefs and philosophies. There are classes on meditation and apps which teach you or guide you through the meditation process.

I practice meditation daily and I know the physical, psychological and spiritual benefits from it. You too can do it in a simple way. Close the door to your office, sit still with no interruptions, close your eyes and just try to focus on your breathing. If your mind begins to wander, and it’s going to, go back to your focus on your breath.

I will provide more tips in upcoming columns. Be well, and reach out if you need help.

Hugh Grady
Director, Iowa Lawyers Assistance program
(800) 243-1533
hugh@iowalap.org
ILAP website

Lawyer Wellness Corner: Tips for dealing with the pressures of the practice of law, Part 1

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 16:20:59 GMT

In my work with the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program, I have learned about the lack of coping skills some struggling attorneys have. When I was practicing law as a trial lawyer, I coped with stressors by using alcohol and ultimately illegal drugs. The normal practice of law can be difficult enough without the added stressors of dealing with the pandemic, a drop in income for some and the isolation many are now feeling.

Young lawyers may feel overwhelmed dealing with new or complex matters and are afraid to ask for help from a colleague or a more experienced lawyer. The most common fear is being perceived as incompetent. I have seen situations where a younger or more inexperienced lawyer misses a deadline for a court filing or avoids calls from a client.

Avoidance can become the antidote of feeling overwhelmed or depressed. Avoidance can become neglect and failure to communicate. This then becomes a trap which can lead to discipline complaints.

In my next few Wellness Corner columns, I will write about some solutions to dealing with stressors and pressure. The key to recognizing there is a problem is to be honest about it, accept that it is happening and look for solutions. But looking for something outside to “fix” how you may feel can lead to abuse of alcohol or drugs, health issues and depression.

There is a solution if one is willing to admit the problem and to take action to deal with it. Please reach out.

Hugh Grady
Director, Iowa Lawyers Assistance program
(800) 243-1533
hugh@iowalap.org

ABA releases new ethics opinion on responding to negative online reviews

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 22:36:12 GMT

On Jan. 13, the American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility released Formal Opinion 496 regarding responses to online criticism.

In summary, the opinion states: Model Rule of Professional Conduct 1.6(a) prohibits lawyers from disclosing information relating to any client’s representation or information that could reasonably lead to the discovery of confidential information by another. A negative online review, alone, does not meet the requirements of permissible disclosure in self-defense under Model Rule 1.6(b)(5) and, even if it did, an online response that discloses information relating to a client’s representation or that would lead to discovery of confidential information would exceed any disclosure permitted under the rule.

As a best practice, lawyers should consider not responding to a negative post or review, because doing so may draw more attention to it and invite further response from an already unhappy critic. Lawyers may request that the website or search engine host remove the information. Lawyers who choose to respond online must not disclose information that relates to a client matter, or that could reasonably lead to the discovery of confidential information by another, in the response. Lawyers may post an invitation to contact them privately to resolve the matter. Another permissible online response would be to indicate that professional considerations preclude a response.

The Iowa Supreme Court has stated that when the ABA issues an ethics opinion covering an area of practice, the ISBA should refer Iowa lawyers to that opinion for guidance. Click here to view the latest ABA formal ethics opinions.

From the Iowa Lawyer Weekly

Lawyer Wellness Corner: More about connection

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 17:02:41 GMT

In last week’s column, I wrote about the need for connection during the pandemic. In this column, I am going to focus on the need for connectivity for people in addiction recovery.

The problem
12-Step recovery programs have seen a drop off in attendance at meetings. The vast majority of recovery meetings are conducted on Zoom. Almost universally people who attend these meetings express the lack of connectedness to in-person meetings. Connection with one another is extremely important in addiction recovery. The active addict or alcoholic is usually very isolated from others because of the need to keep the addiction a secret. In my work with ILAP, I am aware of relapse with lawyers previously in recovery. Usually, the first sign is that I no longer see them in recovery meetings followed by an inability to personally contact that person.

Connection and recovery
Connection in recovery is usually based on a spiritual and emotional level. It is one alcoholic or addict working with another to help each other to remain clean and sober. People in recovery benefit from joining a 12-Step recovery or other recovery program to form and have connections with one another.

Helping one another
One of the missions of the Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program is to help lawyers and law students who are suffering from alcohol, drug or other addictions. In these difficult times we know that there are folks out there who are isolating while drinking or using. What can you do about that?

In CLE presentations, I always encourage folks who are concerned about another lawyer to reach out directly to that person they may be concerned about. Encourage that person to seek help or you may reach out yourself to ILAP. Any communication with me is confidential by Supreme Court rule. The same confidentiality applies to the Board of ILAP and members of the ISBA Lawyers Helping Lawyers Committee.

Please reach out.

Hugh Grady
Director, Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
(800) 243-1533
hugh@iowalap.org
iowalap.org

Lawyer Wellness Corner: The need for human connection

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 22:19:44 GMT

2020-2021 has been a time of chaos and disruption. The pandemic was the primary cause of isolation and social distancing. Working remotely from home, the closure of courthouses has contributed to a significant rise in stress and depression. It has become an excuse to drink more for those who may already be abusing alcohol.

We are hard wired to need relationships and to feel as if we belong. It is critical to your brain’s feeling of happiness. Studies have shown that physical touch releases oxytocin. It is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is associated with empathy, trust and relationship building.

Benefits of Connection
Some of the benefits include longer life, reduced anxiety and depression, overall better functioning and well-being, and reduced cardio-vascular disease.

Staying Connected
Make a schedule for yourself and get dressed for work even if working remotely. Work-life balance is difficult now and so things such as making a workspace for yourself are important.

It is crucial to maintain your physical fitness. You can walk with a partner or participate in organized yoga classes. Finally, pick up the telephone and call someone, perhaps an old friend or classmate. You can invite others to join in an online book club. There are many activities that involve interaction with others apart from work.

In future issues we’ll continue with the importance of connection with more tips and some references.

Hugh Grady
Director, Iowa Lawyers Assistance Program
hugh@iowalap.org
800-243-1533
515-360-1668

Jumpstart Family Law Trials Task Force releases first set of recommendations

Wed, 1 Jul 2020 21:15:03 GMT

As the Iowa Judicial Branch prepares to restart in-person court proceedings, the appointed members of the Jumpstart Family Law Trials Task Force have released their first set of recommendations. You can view the task force report here.

This family-law-focused task force was created on May 22 to develop temporary policies and procedures for resumption of family law trials following the COVID-19 postponements. The Supreme Court directed the task force to focus on ensuring parties’ fundamental rights while protecting the health and safety of parties, court staff, attorneys, judges and all Iowans who enter any of Iowa’s courthouses.

The most current order from the supreme court allows for the resumption of jury trials beginning Sept. 14. Prior to Sept. 14, the Jumpstart Jury Trials Task Force will be recommending temporary policies and procedures for the resumption of jury trials.

From the Iowa Lawyer Weekly