Advocate takes former firm to Tribunal over bullying claims

Tuesday 23 February 2021

A lawyer who claims she was bullied out of her job is taking her employer to a Tribunal this week.

Advocate Estelle Burns is claiming constructive unfair dismissal against Voisin law firm.

Voisin strongly refutes the claim, which is being heard by a panel led by the Deputy Chairman of the Employment Tribunal, Hannah Westmacott.

Advocate Burns argues that she was forced to resign last March after just over four years with the firm because she felt bullied, harassed, humiliated and ostracised by a ‘clique’ within the litigation department, in which she worked.

She said this took a number of forms, including sarcastic comments, an unwillingness to help her with work, questioning her hours and productivity, moving the office around to separate her from colleagues, and making false accusations.

However, the firm denies those allegations, arguing that Advocate Burns did not keep accurate time-keeping records and frequently left work early and without permission. They also say that friendly correspondence between Advocate Burns and those she accuses of bullying her was evidence that relations were positive. 

The Tribunal will publish its conclusion within six weeks of this week’s hearing.