The Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program is available to assist attorneys who are facing additional stress and pressure due to the coronavirus outbreak and related closures.
TLAP provides free and confidential consultations, referrals, interventions and crisis counseling for lawyers, judges, bar applicants and law students who are struggling with substance abuse, stress or emotional health issues.
Judges, attorneys, and others in the legal profession may also refer colleagues to the program.
“We are up and running during this difficult time and understand the many complications that have arisen in the legal community,” says Judge Michael Spitzer, TLAP commission chair. “We are confident this will not only pass but also make us stronger and help you find new ways to serve the public.”
In addition to statewide and local directives calling for social distancing, the Tennessee Supreme Court issued an order suspending in-person legal proceedings March 13, that called for judges and lawyers to use innovative strategies to conduct necessary business.
“We are confident that you are survivors and will rise to the top of your communities,” Spitzer says. “However, we are always available to you and anyone you feel might need assistance as we navigate the weeks and months ahead.”
TLAP can be reached at 877 424-8527, 615 741-323 or the following email addresses:
Emily Lacey, program manager
Kim Williams, head of office operation
Lindsey O’Connell, mental health clinician
Vanessa Reinarz, mental health clinician
The Tennessee Lawyers Assistance Program was established by order of the Tennessee Supreme Court in 1999. The mission and general structure of TLAP are set forth in Rule 33 of the Tennessee Supreme Court Rules.
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