In the aftermath of the tragedy involving Pinsent Masons partner Vanessa Ford, many in-house legal counsel are urging for greater accountability in the workplace. During a panel discussion at ALM’s Women In Power and Law event, a group of senior in-house women emphasized the important responsibilities companies hold in managing their in-house legal teams effectively.
Among the critical concerns raised was the significant implications of workload management. The circumstances surrounding Ford’s recent death have sparked fresh conversations about the pressures exerted upon legal professionals, necessitating a reevaluation of existing working conditions.
The panel indicated a strong expectation for external counsel to thoroughly assess and improve work-life balance for legal professionals. The participants agreed that clients, particularly those in a corporate setting, should not shy away from this issue but rather, be proactive in fostering a supportive and humane work environment.