Learning about attorney work-life balance and burnout issues and how to overcome them.
Discussing how substance use and mental health issues can lead to detrimental and/or deadly consequences.
Developing a self-care plan and wellness strategies during these challenging times.
Learning about the Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP) and other resources to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Lita Abella is a native of Southern California, born and raised in Hollywood. Lita earned a Juris Doctor from Western State University College of Law in Fullerton. While in law school, Lita was a law clerk for the Riverside District Attorney’s Office, the Office of the Attorney General, and certified mediator for the Superior Court of Orange County.

Lita is a Senior Program Analyst at the State Bar of California, where she conducts outreach and is a MCLE presenter for the Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP). LAP assists law students, bar exam applicants, and attorneys with substance use and mental health issues. Prior to that, Lita worked as an investigator in the Office of Chief Trial Counsel where she investigated and assisted in the prosecution of attorneys for misconduct. She has been with the State Bar for over nine years.

Beginning in 1980, Lita served with the Los Angeles Police Department for 20 years, breaking many glass ceilings as a female and minority. She worked various assignments including but not limited to patrol, Internal Affairs, narcotics, and vice. She was a court-qualified narcotics expert during her years in law enforcement and attained the rank of lieutenant.

Lita has been a fitness instructor and a health and wellness consultant for over 22 years. She is nationally certified by the Athletic and Fitness Association of America.

Lita has served on many boards and committees within many organizations and entities. For the past eight years, she has been a Library Commissioner with the City of Azusa.

This presentation is approved for 1.0 hour of credit for competence towards the required MCLE for the State Bar of California. SGVBA is a Multiple Activity Provider.

Pivoting Past the Pandemic: Work Life Balance for Legal Professionals