The dangers of drink in the legal profession have become well known in recent years as solicitors struggle with growing demands from timesheets and clients alike. So Obiter was concerned for lawyers at City giant Lovells, on passing their offices on Holborn Viaduct and noticing a sign announcing an application to extend its liquor licence to authorise the sale of alcohol on levels four, 11 and 12 of Atlantic House in addition to level three. Had billing targets risen so sharply that the only way lawyers could get through countless all-nighters was in an alcohol-induced haze? Happily, there is no need for Alcoholics Anonymous to send an emergency team, as a spokeswoman explains that the extension is for a series of charity fundraising events being held at the offices over the next few months.