Lawyers’ perspectives on how to manage the psychosocial risks they face in the legal assistance sector

A growing body of research reveals that the psychosocial risks faced by lawyers working in the legal assistance sector are not being adequately managed by employers, which is taking its toll on the on the mental wellbeing of lawyers. In this qualitative study, 16 lawyers from the sector in Australia describe measures that could be taken to manage these risks. This includes managing work loads/type/clarity/control, supporting isolated staff, creating supportive teams, training, supervision and mentoring, effective and supported managers, rewards and recognition, a safe physical environment, recruitment and retention, risk assessment and management processes, reporting mechanisms and adequate policies and procedures. Participants recommended preventative measures, suggestions solutions need to be tailored to lawyers and their work setting; and be actioned and modelled from the top of the organisation. The rich detail provided by participants offers employers in the sector a much needed list of strategies to implement.