Today, a troubling trend casts a dark shadow over the dreams of lawyers in Australia — a rising epidemic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), stemming from a shocking cycle of bullying within law firms.

Behind the polished façade of the legal world lies a sinister reality that demands urgent attention.

The terrifying numbers

Startling statistics from the International Bar Association reveal that a staggering 73 per cent of female and 50 per cent of male legal professionals are caught in the clutches of relentless bullying within their law firms.

But that’s not all.

In a 2015 study published in the Journal of Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution, the legal community was left gasping for air as it was revealed that a staggering 20 per cent of surveyed law students experienced symptoms consistent with PTSD.

The insidious nature of this disorder haunts individuals throughout their legal education and early careers, leaving them emotionally scarred and haunted by their experiences.

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A noble pursuit turned nightmare

Becoming a lawyer is no easy feat. It demands unwavering dedication, countless hours of hard work, and a burning desire to make a difference in the world. However, for too many lawyers, this noble pursuit can quickly morph into a living nightmare when they find themselves at the mercy of partners who engage in toxic behaviours, poisoning the very environment they should thrive in.

Consider the case of Emma*, a courageous young lawyer who recently reached out to me to share her harrowing story.

For a gruelling two years, Emma endured a relentless torrent of beratement, deliberate information withholding, occasional threats, and all-around bullying from her boss. The toll it took on her body and mental wellbeing became unbearable, ultimately leading her to walk away from a job she had fought tooth and nail to attain.

But even after securing a new position six months later, Emma found herself unable to escape the haunting memories of her former boss. She could not comprehend why she still fixated on the tormentor she had left behind despite finding solace in her new role.

Seeking help from a psychologist, Emma received a devastating diagnosis: PTSD, a direct consequence of enduring her boss’s reign of terror and the toxic work environment for such an extended period. It was a harsh realisation that physically moving on was not enough; she needed time to heal from the deep wounds inflicted upon her psyche.

Emma’s story is not an isolated incident.

Countless young lawyers across Australia face a similar plight. Superiors in the legal profession, armed with power and influence, subject their junior colleagues to an unrelenting barrage of bullying tactics. Verbal abuse, incessant criticism, menial tasks, information deprivation, and even threats of professional ruin become the weapons of torment. The cumulative impact of such treatment leaves indelible marks on the mental and emotional wellbeing of these bright, aspiring legal professionals.

A struggle for growth

The consequences of this silent epidemic reach far beyond the personal realm — they infiltrate professional growth.

Lawyers, once filled with enthusiasm and passion, find themselves trapped in a suffocating cycle of anxiety, stress, and fear. Relentless belittlement and humiliation erode their self-esteem, causing doubts about their abilities and self-worth.

PTSD invades every aspect of their lives, tormenting their thoughts, disrupting their sleep with nightmarish visions, and subjecting them to distressing flashbacks. They exist in a perpetual state of hypervigilance, forever on edge, dreading the next blow to their already fragile spirits.

What should have been a source of fulfilment and personal growth transforms into a suffocating abyss, preventing them from reaching their true potential.

Given the lack of comprehensive and up-to-date data on the specific number of lawyers in Australia struggling with bullying-induced PTSD, it is crucial to recognise that even a single case of such trauma is one too many.

A call for change

Addressing this deeply rooted issue requires a collective commitment to change within the legal profession.

Law firms must rise with conviction and take decisive action by implementing the following measures:

• Establish zero-tolerance policies: Law firms must adopt zero-tolerance policies for bullying and harassment. Partners should lead by example, treating their colleagues with respect and fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.
• Promote reporting mechanisms: Confidential reporting mechanisms should be implemented to encourage lawyers to come forward and report incidents of bullying. Safeguarding the anonymity of those who speak out is crucial to ensure their safety and prevent potential retaliation.
• Provide mental health support: Prioritise mental health support services within law firms, including access to therapists, counsellors, or employee assistance programs. These resources can offer guidance, coping strategies, and a safe space for lawyers to process their experiences.
• Foster mentorship programs: Encourage senior partners to take on mentorship roles and guide lawyers through professional development. Establishing strong mentorship programs can provide support, guidance, and a sense of belonging.
• Raise awareness: Conduct workshops and training sessions to educate partners and lawyers about the impact of bullying and the signs of PTSD. This awareness can help create a more empathetic and understanding work environment.
• Advocate for change: Legal associations and professional bodies should advocate for reforms that address workplace bullying. Push for policies that protect lawyers from abuse, provide mechanisms for recourse, and hold partners accountable for their actions.

It can evolve into a realm that upholds the principles of justice while safeguarding the wellbeing and mental health of its future leaders.

Only then can the dreams of lawyers be rekindled and the darkness lifted from their path to greatness.

Stefanie Costi is a lawyer at Garland Hawthorn Brahe and an advocate for young lawyers.