This program examines how attorney well-being supports competent and ethical practice under the Tennessee Rules of Professional Conduct (TRPC). Under TRPC Rule 1.1 (Competence) and Rule 1.3 (Diligence), lawyers must maintain the knowledge, skill, thoroughness, and capacity necessary for effective representation. Impairment stemming from burnout, chronic stress, vicarious trauma, or seasonal pressures can compromise judgment, performance, and timeliness. Comment [8] to Rule 1.1 further highlights the ongoing obligation to maintain professional readiness through continued learning and sustained capacity, all of which require attorneys to maintain optimal mental health.

The course qualifies for Ethics and Professionalism credit under Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 21, §5H, including §5H(1) (programs addressing ethical duties) and §5H(2), which recognizes professionalism programming that enhances attorney well-being, resilience, optimism, purpose, and recovery from stress or poor workload management, and that supports healthy professional cultures.

Participants will learn practical tools for preventing burnout and vicarious trauma, implementing daily well-being practices, setting healthy boundaries, and navigating challenging seasons while maintaining optimal professional functioning and ethical clarity. These strategies strengthen a lawyer’s capacity to uphold competence, diligence, and professionalism in everyday practice.

This presentation was created in partnership with Jon Michael, J.D., and Lindsey O’Connell, LCSW.

To RSVP, please send an email to admin@thompsonburton.com include your name, title, firm name, phone number and TN BPR number.