A Trial Lawyer’s Journey from Psych Ward to Wellness chronicles your journey through mental illness and recovery, revealing how resilience, humor, meaningful relationships, and everyday wellness practices can transform adversity into purpose and hope. What motivated you to write this book?

Combating the stigma that folks with mental health disorders, like I have, have to fight against. I want to encourage everyone who needs help to be willing and able to ask for it. 

How did your experience with psychiatric hospitalization change your understanding of mental illness, both personally and as an attorney advocating for vulnerable individuals?​

It made me aware that in the US we fail to reach many people who need support and mental health support. There are too many barriers to receiving help such as the high cost and limited availability.  

As a criminal defense attorney, how did witnessing injustice and representing vulnerable clients affect your mental health and understanding of secondary trauma?​

Yes, visiting client on death, having client’s beaten by police and then falsely charged, and having a teenage client commit suicide all were traumas that affected me during my 43 year long career.  

Annie Oakley brings humor and companionship to your story. What has your relationship with her taught you about emotional resilience and everyday wellness?​

Having a beloved pet is essential to my mental health and well being. Psychiatrists and therapists should write prescriptions for companion animals. Annie is a rescue dog who rescued me.  

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