This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Dalton A. Breshears, J.D.
For a profession built on deadlines, pressure, and perfectionism, burnout in the legal field isn’t a surprise, it’s almost expected. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s normal. And if you don’t learn to recognize the signs early, burnout has a way of sneaking up and steamrolling everything in its path.
You might think burnout looks like a total breakdown, but it usually starts much quieter, chronic fatigue, irritability, zoning out during meetings, or feeling like your work doesn’t matter no matter how hard you push. When you’re running on autopilot and dreading every Monday, that’s not just stress. That’s your brain waving a red flag.
Law culture doesn’t always make it easy to talk about this stuff. There’s a weird badge of honor in being the one who stays the latest or never says no. But long hours and constant pressure aren’t sustainable, no matter how tough you are. Eventually, your work suffers, your health takes a hit, and your love for the law starts to fade.
So, what helps? Start with boundaries, real ones. Set limits on your work hours, even if it’s just turning off email at night. Find a non-law outlet that gives your brain a break. Talk to other attorneys who get it. And if things feel unmanageable, don’t wait, consider therapy, coaching, or speaking to someone in your firm or network.
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re in the wrong career, it might just mean you need to practice law differently. The goal isn’t to quit. The goal is to stay in the game without losing yourself along the way.
Created by: Dalton A. Breshears
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Dalton A. Breshears, J.D.