One of the top M&A lawyers outside the Square Mile, Chris Godfrey heads up Burges Salmon's corporate practice

Why did you become a lawyer?

My brother-in-law, a Canadian legal aid attorney, suggested it. He had a Kawasaki motorcycle, plenty of cash and a West Coast lifestyle! It seemed very glamorous from the perspective of a teenager in Croydon in the late 1970s.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

The late Iain Murray of Linklaters – I was his articled clerk while he was at the vanguard of Linklaters' learning about the new financial services legislation. It was a brilliant grounding at the feet of an elder statesman. Also Richard Trevor Johnson, senior partner of Burges Salmon when I joined. He had great vision for the firm as well as outstanding ability and helped me a lot in the early years.

What's your proudest professional moment?

No one moment, but I am proud of what we have collectively achieved at Burges Salmon. When I joined we were a team of eight solicitors and one trainee doing the whole range of company/commercial work. That is now two departments with 138 fee earners. It still is great fun.

What's your strongest card – technical wizardry or smooth client skills (you can only pick one)?

Probably the latter – but I can't bring myself to say it.

What advice would you give to young deal lawyers starting out?

Remember it's a marathon and not a sprint. Pace yourself and master the basics. Also, just because your point is correct that doesn't make it worth winning.

What's your strongest characteristic… and worst trait?

Common sense… and flippancy.

…and worst day on the job?

Enduring a three-hour taped interview with the Serious Fraud Office following fraud in a client company about 15 years ago. Even though I was only a potential witness, I found it incredibly stressful; like being in the dock myself.

Aside from your own firm, which lawyer do you most admire and why?

Lord Denning, for his clarity of expression. Otherwise the one I'm negotiating with at any particular time, so long as they are being sensible! In Bristol I would mention Stephen Davies QC of Guildhall Chambers for his sheer quality.

If you could change one thing about the profession, what would it be?

Contingent fees!

How do you think assistants in your team see you?

Ideally through the window of Renatos, a little Italian restaurant near the office. The Scallopine Milanese is particularly good on a Friday lunchtime.

What most annoys you about the legal profession?

Conceit.

What's the toughest ethical/moral dilemma your job has ever presented you with?

A long time ago we were advising the sellers of a company and two days before signing they told me that they had been giving bungs to buyers in the trade – but I was instructed not to tell the purchaser through the disclosure process. A big stand-off followed and I had to threaten to terminate the retainer. In the end the client relented and we disclosed. As it happened the buyer wasn't the least surprised and saw it as standard practice!

What's the best part of your job?

The wit and camaraderie with colleagues and clients alike. It doesn't feel like work when it is good fun.

What's the worst corporate event you've ever attended?

The various deal awards dinners take some beating. I can't believe how seriously some people take them – and themselves.

Most memorable deal you ever have worked on and why?

The flotation on the Unlisted Securities Market of Brandon Hire in 1989 – it was my first float in Bristol and I was given the 'Man of the Match' award by the client finance director afterwards.

What will be the most significant market trend in terms of your practice area over the next 12 months?

Competing for deal flow to keep people occupied while we all hold our breath.

Do you see yourself having a career outside law?

No – I haven't got time for a paper round or similar if that's what you mean, and I'm too old to sign for Crystal Palace!

What would be your motto?

"I'd rather cut my knob off with a rusty knife than… [select anything really]."

What's your favourite item of clothing?

Anything tailored by Mr Milone of Case & Edwards, Zetland Road, Bristol (maybe I'll get a discount if I send him a copy of this).

What's your favourite cheese?

Camembert – lait cru, of course.