Burnout, Balance, and Support

Written by: Tina Williamson, VARP™

A Family Law Paralegal’s Perspective

As a paralegal (particularly the family law division), burn out is always looming around the corner waiting to rear its ugly head.  As paralegals we are constantly managing cases, documents, calendars, the list goes on.

Burn out manifests in many ways, and unfortunately one small incident, at the tail end of a burn out, can impact the relationship with our clients for the remainder of the case.  It is our responsibility as paralegals to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves and doing what is necessary to prevent burn out.

Do we work through lunch – yes.  Do we stay late – yes. Do we always take some time for ourselves to relax and recharge – no. 

Recently, Vanderpool, Frostick, & Nishanian gave me the opportunity to attend the VTLA Family Law Retreat in Fredericksburg.  I met with other paralegals who not only understood what I face on a day-to-day basis; I met other family law paralegals who know exactly what I face on a day-to-day basis. 

It was amazing to talk to a group of people who understood.  I learned new laws that may affect our clients in Domestic Relations matters.  I was able to discuss other techniques used to make my daily responsibilities easier, more efficient, and less costly for our clients.  The group shared ideas, tips, and tricks for managing the dreaded burnout. 

The most important thing I was able to get from the Retreat – was a breath.  Not just any breath, but a healing breath.  The kind of breath you take as that long exhale of relief that I am heard, appreciated, and supported by my attorney and by my firm. 

I am so thankful that I work for an attorney and a firm that hears, supports, and appreciates their support staff.

When a firm supports their team, they support their clients.  Often, support staff are the first impression and the last point of contact.  Knowing that Vanderpool, Frostick, & Nishanian understand the significance of providing the whole team with the essential tools, the guidance needed, and support deserved only intensifies my personal responsibility to be exceptional for an exceptional firm.
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This blog post is not intended to provide legal advice or substitute for the advice of legal counsel with respect to specific facts and situations. See disclaimer