So much of solicitors’ work involves high stakes. A client’s business hangs in the balance; an accused’s liberty is threatened; a child’s safety is at risk. Little wonder, then, that in these and similar circumstances our own mental health can come under significant pressure.

My decision to make ‘building solicitors’ mental health and wellbeing’ one of my President’s Priorities this year was reinforced by research in late 2024 showing that a concerning number of lawyers were planning to leave their current employment within a year. Unsustainable stress and constant pressure were among the top reasons given.

Supporting solicitor wellbeing isn’t just advising solicitors on how and when to reach out for help. It’s also helping to develop capabilities to build the confidence and resilience to really thrive, both professionally and personally.

I couldn’t be prouder of the progress the Law Society of NSW has made in recent months in this area.

In response to member feedback, we have refreshed our Staying Well in the Law series of online and on-demand CPD webinars to focus on solicitor-specific mental health, wellness strategies and people-focused skills. These practical sessions are now scheduled for 1-2pm, for the convenience of practitioners with obligations at court.

The response to these changes has been overwhelmingly positive, with a doubling in average registrations for these webinars compared to last year.

Most recently, on Wednesday 22 October, our Wellbeing Manager Anna Fischer led Hold the Line - a session on how solicitors and support staff can deal sensitively with colleagues, clients, or members of the public who are exhibiting acute emotional distress. This session will be freely available to members on-demand by Friday, 14 November.

In consultation with respected experts in psychology and lawyer wellbeing, Anna has also developed the Crisis Communication Guide as a free resource, now available to all solicitors, to help them respond to and de-escalate crises over the phone with people who are acutely distressed.

I regard this resource as an important part of delivering on my mental health and wellbeing President’s Priority. The work we are doing in this area not only helps solicitors manage their own mental health, but also equips them to support those in crisis.

The November edition of Staying Well in the Law is Dying to Work. In this session, trauma and addictions specialist Kimberly Winters will discuss what addiction is, how we can become unhealthily attached to certain substances and behaviours, and how those struggling with dependencies can protect their personal health and wellbeing. Dying to Work is free for members, and you can register here.

Jennifer Ball, President, The Law Society of NSW