Thomas is suspended from work and a disciplinary investigation process is in progress.

Thomas calls, Ben, who works in the HR department.

Ben is a friend of his from years ago. They used to play football together and often go out for drinks on Thomas's nights off. They arrange to meet at the pub that night.

Thomas buys Ben a beer and fills him in on what has happened - he has been wrongfully suspended from work! According to Thomas, Kelly has thrown herself at him during night shift and when he threatened to report her, she got in first and said it was him who assaulted her!

Ben had heard something about the suspension and was very glad to hear that his friend was not in the wrong.

Thomas asks Ben if he could get the disciplinary file out of the HR Manager's office and photocopy it for him so he knows what is happening in the investigation. This will help him as he will be able to see Kelly's statement and what the investigator has said in the report.

He needs the information before he goes in front of the investigation committee next week. If Ben can get the report, Thomas promises that he will never tell anyone.

Ben feels sorry for his friend and the next day he works back late. He finds the HR Manager's office key and 'borrows' the file. He makes a copy.

On his way home he drops in at the pub and gives Thomas the photocopies. Ben can't believe the lies that Kelly has told about Thomas in her statement - he feels really sorry for his friend as it looks like it will just be Kelly's word against his, and everyone knows that the female is always believed over the male in a sexual assault case!

Thomas buys Ben another drink. 'Cheers,' Thomas says as they clink bottles. Thomas grins widely.

Would you need to obtain legal advice for this situation? Explain your response.