by Tim Lemieux

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The New York Times has published an excellent article called “The Lawyer, The Addict” about a lawyer who succumbed to a secret drug addiction and his ex-wife’s attempts to piece together how he could maintain a successful legal career while hiding his problems right to the very end.

The article explores the toll drugs and alcohol can take on lawyers and how the culture at some firms can exacerbate the problem while also trying to keep it out of sight. As one lawyer puts it: ““Law firms have a culture of keeping things underground, a conspiracy of silence,” he said. “There is a desire not to embarrass people, and as long as they are performing, it’s easier to just avoid it. And there’s a lack of understanding that addiction is a disease.”

If you’re an Ontario lawyer who needs help or wants more information on addiction you can visit the confidential Member Assistance Program (MAP) offered by Homewood Human Solutions.

Categories: Wellness and Balance