Senior legal counsel dismissed for disinstructing law firm without approval

CMS acts for Multiplex against respondent

CMS served notice of referral to adjudication on behalf of Multiplex, creating a potential conflict of interest.

Claimant signs CMS framework agreement

The claimant approved a framework agreement for CMS to provide legal services on multiple projects, despite knowing of the Multiplex dispute.

Claimant makes inquiries about Vauxhall Square

The claimant emailed the project manager for VS without involving Mr Newton, who was responsible for that project.

Disclosure (b) - email to Mr Guan

The claimant emailed senior management stating CMS had a conflict of interest and suggesting using Taylor Wessing instead.

Disclosures (c) and (d) - meeting and email

The claimant raised the conflict issue in a meeting with Mr Newton and Mr Zhai, and later confirmed it in an email.

Disclosure (g) - email and call with CMS

The claimant emailed Mr Guan stating she would terminate CMS's services due to conflict, and had a call with CMS to that effect.

Disclosure (k) - email to colleagues

The claimant emailed colleagues stating CMS would be disinstructed on most matters, without prior internal agreement.

Claimant sends email to CMS

Despite being told to send only a holding email, the claimant sent an email reiterating the conflict allegation, which was not a holding email.

Claimant dismissed

The claimant was dismissed with immediate effect for gross misconduct, including unauthorised activities and disobedience.

Appeal dismissed

Dr Yang upheld the dismissal, finding the claimant had acted inappropriately and without proper consultation.