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As I near the end of my term as Executive Director of Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, Carole King’s words in “You’ve got a friend” ring true as watchwords of LCL. For nearly 50 years, LCL has been here as a friend, colleague, and confidant for Minnesota’s legal community. It has been my honor and privilege to shepherd this organization, made up of an incredible network of volunteers, supporters, and allies, as we have grown in so many ways. Bench and Bar invited me to reflect on LCL’s journey — how we began, how we’ve grown, and what lies ahead in “Celebrating LCL.” You may read it here.
Here are a few observations that have matured over 20 years:
· We are a profession that genuinely cares about others. Sometimes that caring can lead to challenges like depression, or substance use issues. Sometimes we bring our own trauma as a force for good and find that we need more help. And sometimes we lose sight of what we are meant to do, and it has lasting impacts. This is not a weakness, it’s an opportunity to ask for help, to get help, and to recover, whether it’s a lifelong transition or practical changes.
· It is now more acceptable to ask for help. Why? Perhaps it’s because lawyer assistance programs have become more visible when sharing the critical work that we do. Perhaps it’s inspired by a well-being movement fueled by data that recognizes our risks. Perhaps it’s the availability of more tools. Perhaps it’s the fact that newer lawyers are mentoring upward and dismantling stigma. Whatever the reason, what matters is that the door to support is more open now.
· We have more tools than ever before. New therapeutic and other professional tools and strategies mean that the expertise of the LCL staff and our network has grown exponentially. The range of resources we can offer to our clients has grown as well. We have also learned that despite these tools and this guidance, challenges still arise, and it will never be your fault for not doing well-being well-enough.
Along the way, I and LCL have benefited from an incredibly dedicated and passionate board of directors. They have been available to guide and make the tough decisions required of every board, with compassion and humility, as they remember who we serve. I have been joined by an equally passionate group of colleagues, LCL staff and volunteers, who are dedicated to meeting our clients where they are and walking the road to recovery, whether major or minor, through difficulty, toward hope. I am grateful to all of them.
In 2023, as keynote speaker for LCL’s Stepping Up for Well-Being Breakfast, Judge Donovan Frank, our incoming Board Chair for 2025-2026, drew on the words of Bill Withers in “Lean On Me.” That is LCL’s offering to our community and our legacy.
You’ve got a friend. Lean on us.
With gratitude for 20 years.
Joan Bibelhausen