A Manitoba lawyer has been suspended after physically assaulting an articling student during a work event.
According to reports, the incident occurred at a social gathering for the law firm where the lawyer and student were both employed. Witnesses say that the lawyer, whose name has not been released, punched the student in the groin without provocation.
The student, who has also chosen to remain anonymous, reported the incident to the firm’s human resources department. The lawyer was immediately suspended pending an investigation.
In a statement, the law firm expressed their shock and disappointment at the lawyer’s actions, stating that they have a zero-tolerance policy for any form of violence or harassment in the workplace. They also assured that the matter is being taken seriously and appropriate actions will be taken.
The Law Society of Manitoba, the governing body for lawyers in the province, has also launched an investigation into the incident. They have the power to discipline and potentially revoke the lawyer’s license if found guilty of professional misconduct.
This incident has sparked a conversation about workplace violence and the treatment of articling students in the legal profession. Many are calling for stricter measures to be put in place to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
The articling student involved in the incident has declined to comment, but it is reported that they are seeking legal counsel and considering pressing charges against the lawyer.
This is a developing story and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
