VJLAP - Virginia Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program
Confidential, non-disciplinary assistance to Virginia's legal professionals and their families since 1985.
02/02/2026
At VJLAP, we honor Black History Month as a time to recognize the history, contributions, resilience, and leadership of Black individuals within the legal profession and beyond.
We acknowledge the profession’s history of inequity and the ongoing impact this can have on well-being. Creating space for reflection, dialogue, and support matters. This month, and always, we reaffirm our commitment to a profession where all feel seen, supported, and able to thrive.
02/01/2026
February is đź«€ Health Month
Chronic stress isn’t just “part of the job” for lawyers—it’s a real health risk. Prolonged chronic stress can impact heart health, sleep, focus, decision-making, and overall well-being.
The good news? Stress can be managed, and small, practical changes can make a meaningful difference—for both personal health and professional effectiveness.
VJLAP is happy to present a complimentary Virginia CLE or presentation to law firms, bar associations, courts, law schools, and other legal organizations focused on:
✔️ Managing chronic stress
✔️ Reducing burnout and compassion fatigue
✔️ Enhancing well-being and professional effectiveness
Reach out to to learn more or schedule a CLE or presentation:
VJLAP had a great conversation yesterday with the Loudoun County Bar Association about the impact of chronic stress on our ability to practice competently and imposter syndrome. Thank you, Eric Pohlner, for organizing.
We appreciated the strong turnout and thoughtful engagement from attendees. These conversations matter—when we share, we feel less alone and help reduce stigma.
All VJLAP Virginia CLEs and presentations are complimentary. Reach out today.
Join us for the 2026 Women’s Legal Professional Retreat, Feb 27–March 1, in Lynchburg, VA, for a restorative weekend focused on well-being, connection, and professional sustainability.
✔️ 14.5 hours of Virginia CLE (wellness + ethics)
✔️ Thought-provoking programming, yoga, meditation, and meaningful connection
✔️ Designed for women in law, open and welcoming to all with an interest in law and well-being
VJLAP was grateful to be part of the Virginia Bar Association’s 136th Winter Meeting and for the opportunity to exhibit, connect with so many attorneys, and participate in a panel discussion about compassion fatigue.
Thank you to The Virginia Bar Association for creating space for important conversations about compassion fatigue. These discussions matter—for lawyers, for clients, and for the profession as a whole. Special thanks to Jessica Blaemire, Dr. Rachel Boehm, Hetal Challa, Kimberlee Ramsey, and Tom Repczynski for sharing their time, insight, and thoughtful perspectives. Your leadership and commitment to lawyer well-being truly make a difference.
As a reminder, VJLAP provides confidential, complimentary, and non-disciplinary support to Virginia’s legal community. In addition to direct services such as assessments, peer support, and groups, we also offer Virginia CLEs and educational presentations on a wide range of well-being and professional topics. We are always happy to speak with your firm, court, or organization. Reach out today!
HelpLine (24/7): 877.545.4682
Richmond Office: 804.644.3212
01/03/2026
Great post from WV’s LAP about how lawyers can build, nourish and replenish this winter.
As we enter another year, we don’t need to create more pressure for ourselves. Jamie Spannhake has five ways to use this season to restore and build energy for the new year.
01/01/2026
Start the year by investing in you and joining us at the 2026 Women's Legal Professional Retreat Friday, February 27 - Sunday, March 1.
A new year brings new beginnings—and sometimes new challenges. VJLAP wishes you health, balance, and hope, and reminds you that support is always available.
VJLAP wishes you and your loved ones a meaningful and reflective Kwanzaa, filled with peace, purpose, and renewal.
12/25/2025
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas. This season can be filled with joy and celebration—but it can also be challenging.
If you or someone you care about is feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or struggling, please remember that you are not alone. VJLAP is here to help. Our services are confidential, compassionate, and free, and support is available 24/7.
If you need support, reach out anytime:
VJLAP HelpLine (24/7): 877-545-4682
Take care of yourselves and one another this holiday season.
12/17/2025
12/15/2025
Wishing you a happy Hanukkah filled with light, connection, and peace.
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The goal of The Virginia Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program is to provide confidential, non-disciplinary help to lawyers, judges, law students, bar applicants and other members of the legal community who are experiencing personal or professional impairment as a result of substance abuse or mental health issues.
Assistance helps prevent disciplinary problems for the lawyer, protects the client, supports the lawyer’s family and professional associates, as well as strengthens the profession.
Specifically, VJLAP provides the following services, without fee:
Substance abuse and mental health education for the profession through Bar associations, firms and law schools.
Information and referral for individuals and colleagues
Assessment and treatment referral
Intervention
Compliance monitoring for courts and firms
Support services for family and staff
Assessments as requested by the Board of Bar Examiners, Character and Fitness Committee
Assessments, treatment referral and monitoring as requested by the Virginia State Bar, Disciplinary Committee and the involved lawyer, as disposition or diversion
