Idaho Lawyers Assistance Program
The mission of the Idaho Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP) is to provide support for lawyers who are experiencing problems associated with substance abuse and/or mental health issues in a safe manner, preserving the reputation and trust of the attorney. All information is 100% confidential and will not be reported to the Idaho State Bar.
The program also focuses on educating legal professionals and their family and friends about the causes, effects and treatment of alcohol and drug dependency, depression, and other mental health problems. Judges and attorneys volunteer their time to assist lawyers who suffer with these issues through the appropriate resources.
When calling the 24/7 confidential phone line, you will receive...
- Guidance for lawyers in need of assistance or referral sources
- Information relating to alcohol/drug education, mental health treatment, interventions, monitoring, and/or family support
- Guidance for re-entering the workplace
- Assistance in finding lawyers who volunteer time as a temporary replacement for those lawyers entering a treatment program
- Recommendations for appropriate treatment centers
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Issues in the Legal Profession
Alcoholism, drug addiction, and mental health problems are treatable illnesses that affect a great number of professionals, including lawyers and judges. Reports now estimate that while 10% of the general population has problems with alcohol abuse, 15-18% of the legal profession battles the same problem. Since many lawyers and judges tend to be overachievers who carry an enormous workload, the inclination to “escape” through the use of drugs and alcohol is prevelant in the legal community. These daily pressures can lead to inordinate amounts of stress and mental illness. Recent national reports have shown that a majority of disciplinary problems involve chemical dependency or emotional stress. The effects can be devastating - both to the individual and to those around them. Fortunately, there is help.
You are not alone - if you are concerned about ...
- Your own use of alcohol or other drugs
- The use of alcohol or drugs by a partner or associate
- A fellow attorney or judge who you see is affected by the use of alcohol or other drugs
- You or a fellow attorney’s inability to handle matters due to depression or other forms of mental illness
- ... Contact the LAP for assistance.
Who to Call
For assistance or to make a referral, please contact:
Southworth Associates
5530 W. Emerald
Boise, ID 83706
John Southworth, CADC -
Program Coordinator
Lisa Reeser, Assistant
(208) 323-9555 office
(208) 891-4726 cellular
(800) 386-1695 toll free
(208) 323-9222 facsimile
E-mail: Southworth.associates@gmail.com
Website:www.southworthassociates.net
LAP Committee Members
Jamie C. Shropshire, Chair - Lewiston |
Hon. Daniel T. Eismann - Boise Phone: (208) 334-2149 |
Rebecca L. O'Neill - Boise Phone: (208) 493-0405 |
Hon. Phillip M. Becker - Gooding |
James P. Hannon - Coeur d'Alene |
Bruce M. Perry - Boise Cell: (208) 867-9000 |
Kevin S. Borger - Boise |
Amanda C. Horton - Boise Phone: (208) 384-3874 |
Joseph N. Pirtle - Boise Phone: (208) 395-7144 |
Ronald D. Christian - Caldwell |
James D. Huegli - Boise Phone: (208) 860-8659 |
Hon. Thomas J. Ryan - Caldwell Phone: (208) 454-7371 |
Hon. Gregory M. Culet - Nampa |
Angela S. Kaufmann - Boise Phone: (208) 332-8509 |
Thomas M. Vasseur - Coeur d'Alene |
| Brian N. Donesley - Boise Phone: (208) 343-3851 |
Thomas H. Lopez - Boise Phone: (208) 336-2455 |
John Southworth - Statewide Outreach (Non-Lawyer Committee Member) Phone: (208) 891-4726 |
Yvonne A. Dunbar - Boise |
Hon. Daniel B. Meehl - Twin Falls Phone: (208) 733-8310 |
Survival Guide for Lawyers
The Survival Guide for Lawyers 
is a basic introduction to the dynamics of alcoholism and chemical dependency, depression, and stress, and guidelines for getting help for yourself, or a client or colleague whose life is impaired by such difficulties. Includes the scope of the LAP, issues of confidentiality, as well as, how to access the program. Also includes a brief examination of the impact these problems can have on admission to the Idaho State Bar.
Information is available from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare on suicide prevention. You can access the information at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/pdf/NSPL-Consumer%20Brochure-1-30-06.pdf
