What does ALAP mean in LAW & LEGAL

The Alabama Lawyer Assistance Program (ALAP) is an independent 501(c)(3) organization founded to help attorneys, judges, law students and other individuals in the legal profession who are struggling with substance use issues, mental health concerns, stress-related challenges or other life problems.

ALAP offers educational programs as well as free and confidential one-on-one assistance for attorneys who need guidance with recovery and continuing care. We provide support through individual sessions with qualified counselors, support groups, referral services, and online resources that can assist you in addressing issues of concern to your personal and professional wellbeing.

The program offered by ALAP is open to all members of the legal profession including lawyers, judges, law clerks, paralegals, court personnel and students enrolled in an ABA accredited law school. Our services are available both at our main office located in Birmingham or through telehealth services if requested.

All services provided by ALAP are free of charge regardless of geographic location. You may be asked to complete a brief paperwork package about your insurance for billing purposes; however our goal is to ensure that participation in the program is not hindered due to financial hardship.

Yes. With few exceptions based on certain state laws or regulations related to mandatory reporting requirements we understand how important it is for us to maintain strict confidentiality when needed. We will make every effort to accommodate reasonable requests regarding anonymity when seeking assistance and respect your wishes so long as it adheres with applicable laws related to disclosure in some instances such as reporting threats of harm or abuse toward self or another individual.

Absolutely not! We think it takes courage for individuals to recognize they have a problem and want help addressing it -for this reason we provide compassionate care without judgment. We understand everyone's circumstances surrounding their situation are unique which is why we treat each case individually taking patience & understanding into account prior to making any assessment or suggestions concerning treatment options.

No! Participation in one of our programs is voluntary & completely confidential meaning no information disclosed during sessions will ever be shared outside the session unless otherwise agreed upon between you & your counselor beforehand or legally required through state statutes or regulations. Additionally ALAP itself has no power nor authority within the justice system so there should be no fear about potential repercussions stemming from involvement with us even on a voluntary basis.

Most participants either continue their counseling journey working directly with their assigned counselor after completion of our initial program journeys while others may decide they don’t need further assistance & move forward without additional intervention based on individual needs/goals set during sessions. Whichever route you choose please know we’re here throughout every stage offering post-treatment support should you ever need it.