MSBAR_Header_Logo_270x80

Well-Being Pledge

Studies since the 1990s have consistently shown that lawyers have higher rates of depression, problematic alcohol use, and anxiety than the general population. These higher rates show themselves in our colleagues as job dissatisfaction, incivility, unethical behavior, malpractice, and suicidal ideation. All of which lead to a negative perception of lawyers by the public.
Those Who Signed the Pledge
DOWNLOAD

WELL-BEING PLEDGE

A Call to a Higher Standard

The Preamble to the Mississippi Rules of Professional Conduct calls on us to “strive to attain the highest level of skill, to improve the law and the legal profession and to exemplify the legal profession’s ideals of public service.” There are active steps each of us can take to live into our calling to be a “well” profession– one that realizes its own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and can make a contribution to our community.

Steps to Completing the Pledge

1

Submitting on Behalf of an Organization

If submitting the Pledge on behalf of an organization, only one Pledge should be submitted for each organization.

2

Recognition for Individual Attorneys and Solo PractitionersIdea Generation

Individual attorneys can receive recognition for working through the Pledge in their own names/individual capacity. Solo Practitioners may participate under their organizational name or their individual name.

3

Selecting Pledge Items for Support

Select “Yes” for pledge items you or your organization intend to support or work toward this year. There is no minimum number of pledged items required to receive recognition. Organizations are expected to focus on areas of importance to their lawyers and staff and pledged items may differ from year to year.

4

Examples and Engagement Opportunities

Examples of activities and other ways to engage with the framework are included in the pledge document for informational and inspirational purposes. They are not required, only suggestions.

5

Annual Reporting and Attestation Form

Reporting is done by calendar year. After pledging your support, we will ask that you report your continuing support each calendar year by completing the Attestation Form by March 31st of the year following the calendar year of your pledge. Reporting is done on the honor system. Recognition will be provided upon receipt of the Attestation Form.

6

Confidentiality of Pledge Documents

Pledge documents are confidential and will not be shared outside of program record keeping.

Scroll to Top
Main Menu