The Trauma Therapist When Trauma and The Legal System Meet with Mark Astor
Oct 30, 2025
Mark Astor, co-founder of Astor Simovitch Law, brings over 30 years of legal expertise to the conversation. He shares his journey into law driven by a passion for helping families facing crises related to substance use and mental health. Mark discusses the vital role of legal tools in involuntary treatment and emphasizes the importance of clinical collaboration. He addresses the risks of state commitments and advocates for family-led alternatives. With a focus on empowerment, Mark illustrates how compassionate legal advocacy can transform lives.
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Failure Sparked A Purpose Shift
- Mark Astor described failing the California bar three times before returning to Florida and passing after three weeks of study.
- That period pushed him to find purpose and eventually build a mission-driven law practice helping families in crisis.
Punish-First Fails Without Treatment
- While a prosecutor Mark saw repeated offenders with substance and mental health issues returning to court.
- He realized punishment-first policies fail when there are no treatment resources available.
Prioritize Personal Growth First
- Take responsibility for personal growth before expecting financial or professional growth.
- Build a mission first, then monetize it by helping people who need your skills.