WellneSSFoRone: mentalhealthandSelF-caReFoRSololaWyeRS
Solo & Small Firm Section Chairs: DavidCarter – CarterInjuryLaw, PA & DawnMyers – MyersLaw, P. A.
ifwewanttoserveour clients, growour practices, andstayin thisforthelonghaul, wemustputourown oxygenmasksonfirst.
Practicing law is demanding. Practicing solo can feel like running a marathon while juggling flaming knives— blindfolded. You’ re the managing partner, the associate, the office manager, and occasionally, the IT department. It’ s no wonder many solo and small firm lawyers struggle with burnout, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed.
What’ s often missing from CLEs and bar events is an honest conversation about the emotional toll this profession takes— especially on those of us running a one-person show. That’ s where wellness comes in, not as a luxury, but as a professional necessity.
As Judge Tesche Arkin wisely notes,“ As a solo practitioner, one shoulders tremendous responsibilities. It is imperative to take care of your mental and physical health first; take necessary breaks and pace yourself gently for the work and personal challenges you will encounter. I personally made time for travel and hobbies
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