State Bar Association of North Dakota

LAWYER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The North Dakota Lawyer Assistance Program (“LAP”) was created in August 2004, pursuant to ND Supreme Court Administrative Rule 49. The program’s purpose is “to prevent and alleviate problems that adversely affect a lawyer’s performance.”

LAP is operated by a six-member Lawyer Assistance Committee (“the Committee”). Members serve three-year terms, and are appointed by the State Bar Board of Governors and the Chief Justice.

Confidentiality is the hallmark of the program - information, including communications with committee members, the affected lawyer, program staff and treatment professionals may not be disclosed without consent of the lawyer, except when disclosure is necessary to prevent the commission of an act likely to result in imminent bodily harm.

Who should participate in LAP?
Lawyers struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues that impact law practice administration or compromise professional competence.

How it works:

a. LAP works on a referral basis, with referrals from:
District Inquiry Committees, Disciplinary Board or the ND Supreme Court
The State Board of Bar Examiners can refer applicants or re-applicants, or
A lawyer may self-refer

b. Referrals are assigned to a Committee member, who meets with the lawyer and conducts an intake evaluation and screening.

c. The Committee reviews the intake evaluation to determine whether the lawyer is an appropriate candidate for LAP.

d. If accepted, an individualized assistance plan (IAP) is developed to address the particular issues of concern. The lawyer must commit to all plan requirements. The Committee monitors the lawyer’s progress and compliance.

e. After the lawyer completes all requirements of his or her individual plan, the Committee issues a report of compliance and the file is closed.

For more information about the Lawyer Assistance Program, contact the State Bar Association at 255-1404.

Click here for the LAP Referral Form.

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