On June 15th, 2018, Attorney Leonard Heath of Heath, Old & Verser, PLCin Newport News was sworn in as the new President of the Virginia State Bar (VSB). He will act as the leader of the organization for one year, and is also the first VSB President from the Peninsula in more than 50 years.
The Virginia State Bar plays an integral role in how Virginia’s legal community is continually improved to benefit the Commonwealth. Not only does it set the standards for ethical conduct, but it also investigates attorneys who have been accused of misconduct. The VSB also helps people find legal professionals who can take their case.
As the President of the VSB, Attorney Heath will act as the prime director of the Bar’s efforts for the next year. He has promised to prioritize public protection from unethical attorneys who should be disciplined by the VSB. Internally, Heath wants to bring attention to mental health and wellness-related issues. In recent years, it has become apparent that a large percentage of legal professionals suffer from depression, anxiety, and alcoholism due to work-related stress. He is adamant about promoting openness and support, as well as strengthening legal networks to make it simple for legal professionals who need help to find it when they need it the most. The focus on mental health awareness touches a personal note for Attorney Heath, who has experienced the loss of two former work associates to suicide.
(If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts or tendencies for any reason, please remember that the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is always available to provide support. You can visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ or call 1-800-273-8255 at any time.)
Interested in learning more about Attorney Heath’s role as the Virginia State Bar President? You can click here to view a full article about it from the Daily Press. To learn more about the Virginia State Bar, you can click here to visit the VSB’s official website. Lastly, if you need a Newport News attorney for a case of your own, call (888) 599-4090 to connect with Heath, Old & Verser, PLC.