Any lawyers out there?

[bb105]

I'm a new attorney recently diagnosed with ADHD-inattentive. Any lawyers out there who can offer any experiences or resources on improving focus and attention in a legal environment? Getting lost in all the factual and legal details while reading large amounts of information, researching the law, and trying to write precisely and succinctly is a daily challenge. Open to any suggestions!

[Austina]

Hi bb105, I'm brand new here, but your post reminded me of my own struggle. I'm a PhD hydrogeologist and groundwater modeler. I get the struggle with having to read, understand, and use piles of material. As far as all of the reading is concerned, I have found that reading in the morning works better for me than any other time of day. Data entry works best in the evenings.

Have you noticed any differences depending on time of day and executive function and/or memory?

[bb105 in reply to Austina]

Austina, thanks for the reply and your thoughtful question. I am just now learning more about how my executive functioning varies depending on the time of day. For me, mornings and mid to late afternoons are better for reading and complex tasks, while late morning and early afternoon are better for rote or simple tasks. I'm challenged when my work demands complex problem-solving and legal analysis 8 hours a day (at least). My current job requires only researching and writing--no client interaction or meetings to attend to break up the monotony or give my brain a rest. I wonder if I'm just in the wrong field or position? :/ I am on medication (adequate dosage, I believe) and have found it necessary, maybe just not sufficient. Thanks again.

[michd123]

I feel your pain. I am not a lawyer but I do medical coding which is reading ALL day and its very hard for me. I feel I am not in a job that is well suited for my brain..Michelle

[Curly_Adelaide]

Hmm, not a lawyer. I'm a programmer. My work needs a lot of attention too. I also were diagnosed as ADHD-inattentive, but not sure if it were right diagnosis - I'm mostly struggling with a procrastination, not lack of attention. Also, when I do coding job, I usually play music in my headsets. It really helps me with lack of attention.

Did you ever have a hyperfocus? You can learn how to go in this condition. I probably learned it because I like to read. I mean, fiction books.

Also, do you take pills? Maybe they can help you with attention?

Meanwhile, just curious: do you have problems with procrastination? And if yes, how bad they're?