Q: I saw a headline, “Attorneys twice as likely as others to commit suicide.” Is that really true?
J.A., Whittier
A: I have been an attorney for more than 40 years now and personally know of no attorney who has died by suicide during that time frame. Even so, research suggests lawyers may be more prone to suicide than various other professions. One study lists lawyers as fourth behind dentists, pharmacists and physicians.
“The profile of a lawyer with the highest risk of suicide was a lonely or socially isolated male with a high level of unmanageable stress, who is overly committed to their work and may have a history of mental problems,” the study says. So it sounds like a variety of factors can lead to a lawyer’s suicide.
The California State Bar recognizes that lawyers deal with a lot of stress at any given time. There is a State Bar Lawyer Assistance Program, which seeks to help attorneys (practicing or not) who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or personal or career concerns.
Lawyers can indeed experience very real difficulties.
There are aspects of a law practice that can be very challenging. For a litigator, a bad result can be so disheartening, even if it was a good case, well presented; nonetheless, human error can result in a negative outcome, which then has ripple effects for the lawyer and others (including, of course, the client). Bottom line, as with all adversity, getting support and reaching out for help is so very critical.
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Q: Would you suggest to a young person today to go into the legal profession?
C.L., Westminster
A: There are many reasons why I would encourage others to consider the legal profession. I simply believe there are a lot more positives than negatives. Is it an easy way to earn a living? I cannot say it is, but there are other aspects to consider.
Having a grasp of legal basics can be of help whether you practice as a lawyer or not. Being a lawyer can lead to work in the private or public sector, and a wide array of choices: civil rights, family law, criminal law, estates and trust, intellectual property and workers compensation, to name a few. In addition, you can teach, write a newspaper column and, in time, possibly become a judge. Also, there are genuine positives you can accomplish. Yes, you can make a good living as well. In sum, the legal profession is worth your serious consideration.
Q: With all the books about lawyers out there, is there one you like most?
B.C., Manhattan Beach
A: I really enjoy reading the “Lincoln Lawyer” series by author Michael Connelly. He weaves a good story with insight and an insightful view of the inner workings of the courts.
Ron Sokol has been a practicing attorney for over 40 years, and has also served many times as a judge pro tem, mediator, and arbitrator. It is important to keep in mind that this column presents a summary of the law, and is not to be treated or considered legal advice, let alone a substitute for actual consultation with a qualified professional.