Last week, I received a text from a client asking if my team and I were okay. Fires had been threatening Burbank, where our office is located, and he wanted to check in. Just days before, we had secured a $500,000 settlement for him—a policy limits case that we had fought hard to win.
This client had been through so much. He was wrongfully accused in a criminal matter, spent years clearing his name, and was finally acquitted. The personal injury case was supposed to be a step toward rebuilding his life. Tragically, only a few days after his text, he was involved in a freak accident and passed away.
I’m still processing the loss. It’s a stark reminder of how fragile life is and how much we invest in the people we represent. For solo practitioners like me, who often work closely with clients and get to know them personally, these losses hit hard.
Stories That Stick With You
Another case that still haunts me involved a client who took his own life shortly after a settlement. I’d had a strong feeling during one of our last conversations that something wasn’t right. I even told my team that I was worried about him. I urged him to seek help, but a week later, I got the call. He was gone. Speaking with his mother afterward was one of the most painful conversations of my career. I’ve replayed those interactions countless times, wondering if I could have done more.
Then there was the client who had struggled with heroin addiction. After his case settled, it seemed like things were turning around. His family was rallying around him, and there were signs of hope. But addiction is relentless. Not long after, we learned he had died of an overdose, a needle still in his arm. I often think about his family and hope they’ve found some measure of peace.
These moments remind me that this work isn’t just about legal deadlines or courtroom victories. It’s about people—their struggles, their hopes, their pain. And for solo practitioners, who often carry the weight of our clients’ stories alone, the emotional toll can be immense.
The Unique Challenges of Solo Practice
A University of Minnesota study found that nearly 28% of attorneys experience depression and 19% struggle with anxiety. These numbers don’t surprise me. When you’re running a solo practice, you’re not just responsible for the legal work; you’re managing every aspect of the business while also absorbing the emotional burdens of the people you serve. It’s no wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed.
Over the years, I’ve realized that taking care of myself isn’t optional—it’s essential.
How I Cope With the Emotional Weight
Here are a few ways I’ve learned to manage the emotional challenges of this work:
- Lean on Family: I make it a point to spend time with my wife and kids. They help me stay grounded and remind me why I’m doing this. Solo practice can consume you if you let it, but my family gives me perspective and strength.
- Find a Support System: I’m fortunate to have a close friend who also runs a personal injury practice. We talk almost every day, sharing the ups and downs of our work. Those conversations have been a lifeline. When you’re a solo practitioner, having someone who understands what you’re going through can make all the difference.
- Prioritize Physical Wellness: I work out at the gym three times a week, which helps me clear my mind. I’m lucky to have a sauna at home, too—it’s become my go-to place for relaxation and reflection. These small routines help me recharge so I can show up for my clients and my family.
- Focus on the Results: One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to focus on getting the best results for my clients. When I’m immersed in building a case or preparing for trial, that focus gives me the emotional distance I need. I channel my energy into winning for my clients, and that sharp focus helps me avoid getting overwhelmed by their personal struggles. While I care deeply about each client, staying results-driven allows me to maintain the clarity I need to be an effective advocate.
Building a Supportive Community
I know I’m not alone in facing these challenges. For solo practitioners, the road can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve found ways to manage the emotional toll of this work, I’d love to hear about them. By sharing our experiences, we can support each other and ensure that we’re not just surviving—but thriving.
All opinions, advice, and experiences of guest bloggers/columnists are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, practices or experiences of Solo Practice University®.