We believe the message is out that PALS is not related to the Bar's disciplinary process. But the issue of trust underlying my friend's concern is so important that we should look at what gave rise to his remark.
PALS works on trust.
A partner may call and ask for us to meet with a lawyer in the firm. The key to PALS's approach is to honor the confidential nature of all requests. If a spouse calls because the lawyer he or she is married to is coming home every night in a drunken rage, that spouse needs to know that PALS's approach is to empower the spouse with options for dealing with the situation. PALS will keep the call confidential. At the spouse's request, PALS can recommend a private interventionist to provide assistance.