The Legal and Human Work of Moving Forward Through Grief from a Suicide

Published in The Legal Intelligencer 

In an article published on September 22 in the The Legal Intelligencer, Family Law Attorney Rebecca L. Palmer discusses the deeply personal experience of grief amidst Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Families must navigate a range of profound emotions and practical day-to-day life, including parenting, finances, and other responsibilities.  

“Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention,” Palmer notes. “For family law practitioners, that statistic is more than a number. Our work often intersects with families during some of the most difficult transitions of their lives, including divorce, custody disputes, and, sometimes, the loss of a spouse, parent, sibling, or other loved one.”  

Legal challenges can arise when the deceased was a former spouse, partner, or parent. While those issues matter, grieving families need time to address what is urgent and defer what can wait. Courtesy should also be extended to children, with continuous reassurance that their feelings and curiosity about the situation are valid.  

“Losing someone to suicide can change the way you see life,” Palmer explains. “It can make us more willing to ask how someone is really doing, to listen without judgment, and to pay attention when something seems different. It inspired me to pursue the law, and it can inspire others to become more compassionate.”  

If you or someone you know is struggling or needs support, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.    

Read the story in full; click here (subscriber-based).