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For Attorneys

Member Services New Mexico Lawyer Assistance Program For Attorneys

For Attorneys

Nature Of The Job:

The demands of the legal profession are real according to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation study. The profession includes balancing deadlines, court dates, hearings, and client expectations all the while also trying to manage personal needs. Lawyers are more vulnerable to personal and professional struggles than the average population, because few occupations have as much pressure and burn out. Competition, long hours, high expectations, the billable hour, and win-lose scenarios can wear down even the most engaged lawyer.

How NM LAP Serves You

NM LAP helps lawyers find solutions for healing and recovery from substance abuse, mental health disorders and provides resources for developing a healthier lifestyle. NM LAP maintains a database of professionals and fellow NM LAP Committee members that are familiar with the challenges faced by lawyers and committed to supporting lawyers lead a life of well-being.

Through NM LAP, lawyers may access confidential and professional services at no cost for:

  • Stress and Burnout
  • Anxiety, Depression, or other Mood Disorders
  • Anger Management
  • Substance Abuse
  • Process addictions such as food, sex, gambling, video games
  • Grief and loss
  • Work Transitions or Retirement
  • Balancing the demands of practice and family


Call 505-420-8179 or 505-228-1948 to learn more.

The NM LAP operates under strict confidentiality guidelines outlined in the N.M. Rules of Professional Conduct (Rule 16-803), the N.M. Code of Judicial Conduct (Rule 21-300), and New Mexico Supreme Court Order No. 05 – 8110. All interactions between NM LAP and its clients are held in the utmost confidence and are not disclosed to any external parties, including professional disciplinary agencies, without the client's consent. Similarly, the identities of individuals reporting concerns about a legal professional to NM LAP are kept confidential and not shared with anyone.

One lawyer helping another creates a powerful relationship that can have a tremendous impact on the healing process. A lawyer who has “been there” can ease the initial fears and provide unique support and direction. Call the NM LAP Helpline at 1-505-228-1948 for more information and referrals to peer advisors.

If you're concerned about someone's risk of suicide, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8225)immediately. In emergencies, call 911. .

The legal community in New Mexico has faced tragic losses to suicide. To address this, the State Bar's Lawyer Assistance Program held discussions in October 2020 via podcast and the NM Bar Bulletin. These discussions, led by Pamela Moore, NM LAP Director, and Dr. Avron Kriechman, MD, University of New Mexico Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.