This is unfortunate. Last May a California attorney was accused of being drunk in court. The attorney, Michelle Winspur, is a criminal defense attorney who must now answer to the California State Bar. The story is here. Ms. Winspur denies the allegations.
Sadly, the above story reports other alcohol related incidents in which she has been involved. This story here reports more, including a missed court appearance and alleged DUI. See the video here.
Attorneys in California who need help with substance abuse issues may contact the Lawyer Assistance Program(LAP). LAP was established by the California Legislature. It is a confidential service of the State Bar of California, staffed by professionals with many years of experience.
LAP provides assistance to attorneys whose personal or professional life is being detrimentally impacted by substance abuse, other compulsive behaviors, and/or mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.
LAP includes: individual counseling, expert assessment and consultation, assistance with arrangements for intensive treatment, monitored continuing care, random lab testing, professionally facilitated support groups, and peer support groups.
The program also works with family members, friends, colleagues, judges and other court staff who wish to obtain help for an impaired attorney. Financial assistance is available so that no one is prevented from participating in the program due to financial limitations.
Attorneys may self-refer into this program or may be referred as the result of an investigation or disciplinary proceeding. Participation in the LAP is strictly and absolutely confidential. No information concerning participation in the program can be released without the attorney’s prior written consent.
More can be found here.
Return to Substance Abuse CLE.
