Gambling disorder involves repeated problematic gambling behavior that causes significant problems in an individual's personal or professional life; impacting their career, family relationships, financial security, and physical health. People with gambling disorder often keep their behaviors hidden, lying to family members and colleagues, misusing funds and moving money often in unethical ways in order to hide their debts and cover the impact of their behaviors. Lawyers, who have strict regulations regarding how client funds are handled, can quickly find themselves in ethical, professional and legal trouble if they are struggling with a gambling disorder while attempting to manage their business finances. Gambling disorder is an addiction and is treatable, there are a number of treatment providers, in patient programs, and support groups throughout the state that offer services to treat individuals suffering from gambling disorder. Calling the LAP 800.255.0569 to ask for assistance is a good place to start to address this issue.
RESOURCES
Gambling Addiction in the Legal Profession
NYS Office of Addiction Services Problem Gambling website
Problem Gambling Resource Centers
Gamblers Anonymous
