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It seems clear that the staff at this firm were being grossly overworked with this particular lawyer being reduced to tears. There must surely be a question as to whether the condition of these lawyers would impact on the quality of their work. Surely, if they are that tired and stressed, it might well impact on their work. This seems a matter of concern that should be investigated by the SRA. As an aside, I wonder how much time was allocated to her CPD or the competency requirements of all these lawyers. This is another matter for the SRA.

As for the lady concerned, if it was clear to the employer that she was suffering from stress, the firm may well have been in breach of its duty of care towards her. The statements of the judge will be useful if not damming evidence that the firm failed in its duty of care if the firm was aware of the employee's stress. It may not too late for her to bring an action against the firm. If she can bring herself within the limitation period, a claim against the firm might lead to some necessary changes.