[pyre]

The legal process isolated him from others because he couldn't discuss the trial with them. Even if he didn't commit suicide because of the prospect of jail time; the situation he was in (limited form of isolation) doesn't help someone with depression.

[danielweber]

I would really like more details, from someone besides Lessig, on how he "couldn't discuss the trial" with people. That is a very very serious issue.

[pyre]

It's good legal advice not to discuss the trial with someone, as they can be called as witness against you. Even if you don't say anything incriminating to them, it could disrupt their life in a way that you don't want to happen.