Redefining Success in a Challenging Legal Environment
9.24.2026
When a client is facing an uphill battle against eviction or deportation, the daunting task of representing vulnerable clients can be a constant stressor for lawyers in civil legal service organizations. How lawyers doing this demanding work can redefine success and care for each other was the focus of the opening session of the New York State Bar Association’s 2026 Partnership Conference.
In quoting poet Maya Angelou, NYSBA President Taa Grays encouraged the attendees to practice strength lined with tenderness.
“It takes strength to stand up for your client who was detained by ICE inside the courthouse when you arrived for a scheduled hearing. And tenderness to console a child or spouse separated from their loved one,” she said. “You will face adversity but don’t allow it to harden you.”
Grays went on to call public interest lawyers warriors in protecting and supporting the rule of law, which is a key element of the association’s mission.
“The rule of law itself has become a debatable point, and you are on the frontlines of this challenging time,” Grays said.
She told the crowd that the New York State Bar Association is committed to continued advocacy to ensure that the Interest on Lawyer Account Fund pays for civil legal services. IOLA is funded with interest paid on lawyers’ trust and escrow accounts, not taxpayer funds.
The fund helps civil legal service organizations provide representation to indigent and low-income New Yorkers. Gov. Kathy Hochul attempted to use IOLA funds for other budget priorities and was forced to change course when several bar groups — including NYSBA — fought her budget proposal.
“IOLA is sacred and we will keep it out of the budget. Lawyers made the decision to take money from our accounts for this purpose. This is how the law was written – read the law!” she exclaimed, which was met with loud applause.
The biennial conference attracts over 500 public interest lawyers, social workers and government experts to Albany’s Capital Center for two days of workshops, speakers and networking. Grays’ keynote address was followed by a panel discussion of attorneys and social workers on coping strategies lawyers can use to handle stress, anger and discouragement on the job.
Emotional Outlets and Stress Reduction Strategies
“Wins and losses take a different toll on us. We can do everything right and we still don’t win,” said Legal Aid of New York City Social Work Director Rachel Goldsmith. She went on to describe the grim reality of fighting a system designed to deny first – to be a gatekeeper to resources like public assistance and benefits.
“Systems can be cruel and inhumane and we feel that. Vicarious trauma is inescapable. You will be impacted by the witness of others struggling,” Goldsmith said.
Integrating self-care strategies can help you stay healthy. These include calming exercises such as deep breathing and meditation or finding joy and escape by watching favorite movies and talking with others who do similar work. Prioritizing sleep and movement are important for a healthy mind and body.
Susan Horwitz, director of the education law project and civil practice at the Legal Aid Society, shared her own struggles.
“I overworked myself and I became vulnerable physically and emotionally and had to take some time off,” she acknowledged. “When I came back, what changed was my team takes care of me – we take care of each other.”
She encouraged people who are struggling to let their colleagues know. Keeping it secret will destroy your health, she said. Horwitz explained that it includes a redefinition of success.
“Did a client get more time with a family member because of your work? That is a win. If you connected with a client and they felt heard – that is a win,” she said. “When someone else has a win – we celebrate their win as a win for all of us.”
The panel encouraged attorneys to implement similar strategies in their workplaces and to reach out to resources like the New York State Bar Association’s Lawyer Assistance Program. The program offers resources for handling stress and dealing with substance and alcohol use through counseling and support groups.
The New York State Bar Association’s Partnership Conference CLE sessions over the two day event are recorded. They will be available for members and non-members to register and view on-demand shortly after the conclusion of the conference.
