This conversation with Professor Sandra Simkins and attorney Lee Robbins explores occupational well-being and burnout in the legal field, with a focus on public interest law. Professor Simkins discusses her research on how structural factors can shape attorney well-being in high-intensity, mission-driven legal environments.

The conversation critically examines the concept of “self-care,” noting that it is often overemphasized at the individual level while underplaying the systemic conditions that drive burnout. The discussion highlights how organizational culture and sustained exposure to emotionally demanding work are central contributors to stress and fatigue among mission-driven attorneys.

It also emphasizes that while systems-level change is essential, understanding personal risk factors can help individuals and organizations make more informed choices about careers, roles, and work environments. Overall, the conversation underscores that attorney well-being requires changes at multiple levels rather than relying solely on individual coping strategies.

Please note, the positions and opinions expressed by the speakers are strictly their own, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers, nor those of the D.C. Bar, its Board of Governors or co-sponsoring Communities and organizations.