Competence IssuesCourse Demo. No credit provided in demo mode. Credit Hours: Faculty: Steven A Nielsen - Course DescriptionIn an overview of his program, attorney Steven A. Nielsen discusses the new definition of the former required program which focused solely on substance abuse and emotional distress, and why it is more relevant and vital to take a 'big picture' approach which considers the multiple pressures which lawyers face in their practices, from physical and mental issues which may impair competence, such as depression, age and natural cognitive decline, to substance abuse (including cannabis), alcohol abuse and general health. He discusses mental illness, mental impairment and depression and how they may be recognized, and programs which help eliminate the stigma of mental health in the workplace. He then offers a series of practical recommendations, such as limitation of constant interruptions from email, texts and cell phones, which he call "Interruption Management," and a "buddy system" by which attorneys can informally check on each other's practices, such as compliance deadlines and other projects. He also suggests ways in which lawyers can focus on activities to help keep a sharp focus, how to embrace physical activities with the caveat "sitting is the new smoking," improved eating habits, and how it may be necessary to sometimes say 'no' to new work in order to deliver top quality legal services and to maintain good mental and physical health. |