Paul Jacobs

Paul S. Jacobs is an attorney with the Texas Lawyers Assistance Program (TLAP), a confidential department of the State Bar of Texas that supports judges, attorneys, and law students experiencing mental health and substance use disorders. His work reflects a deeply personal commitment to helping others find hope, healing, and connection.

Paul serves as president of Texas Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers (TLCL), a nonprofit supporting attorneys and law students who are in recovery or interested in recovery. He also serves on the boards of Professional Lawyer Wellness and RecoveryPeople. As a certified recovery coach, certified mediator, public speaker, and published author, Paul works to increase awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders in the legal profession.

Paul earned his J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center in 1984 and his B.A. from Arizona State University. He played collegiate tennis and participated on the university debate team. He practiced civil trial law, focusing on personal injury, wrongful death, products liability, and medical malpractice. He earned board certifications in Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, as well as certification in Trial Advocacy from the National Board of Trial Advocates. He has been recognized by his peers for his legal accomplishments, including being named a Top Lawyer in Houston.

Of all his accomplishments, Paul is most proud of his recovery from addiction and a fractured back. He and his partner, Debra, are active in the recovery community and share a strong commitment to serving others. He is grateful for the love and support of his two adult children, Austin and Nicole. Each day, Paul strives to remain grounded in the values that mean the most to him: family, recovery, service, and physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.