The Gibson Dunn & Crutcher litigation partner on winning the first Lloyd's names case, sleeping barristers and an underused Leeds United scarf

Why did you become a litigator? 
In my days as an articled clerk, property law involved colouring plans and corporate law involved filling in forms. Litigation seemed a much more exciting option.  

What's the closest you have come to doing something other than law?
During university holidays I worked as a painter and decorator in my home town of Harrogate. I genuinely enjoyed it, but I have always been pretty single-minded about being a lawyer, which is probably a relief for the good homeowners of Harrogate.

Which judge or barrister do you most admire and why? 
Geoffrey Vos, now Lord Justice Vos. Before he went to the bench he and I did a good number of cases together, starting small and, as time went on, getting more grand. His combination of intellect, hard work, judgement, advocacy skill and a sense of humour was unique, although I made a point of never telling him I thought that.

What's been your proudest professional moment/moment in court?
When I was a young partner I led a team (with Geoffrey Vos) that represented the Gooda Walker names. It was the first of the Lloyd's names cases to get to trial. After a couple of years of extremely hard work under an intense media spotlight, contrary to many 'expert' predictions, we won. The day Phillips J (as he then was) handed down the judgment was a good one, although I admit I was already worrying about what I was going to do next. 

… and worst day on the job?
Inevitably I have also had one or two dark days – I am not very fond of losing.

What's the best/worst thing about being a litigator?
The glib, but true, answer is the best thing is winning and the worst thing is losing.  

What's the funniest thing you've ever witnessed in court?
During a long trial there was a lot of pressure on the other side's QC. On one day in court the strain and long hours took their toll and he had obviously fallen asleep. He slipped sideways off his chair and onto the floor in a flurry of files and papers. I won't forget his face when he scrambled to his feet, with his wig perched at the very back of his head, and proclaimed that his chair must have broken. 

How do litigators differ from deal lawyers?
We litigators know we will be disagreeing with the lawyers on the other side, and our aim is to establish that our client's position is correct. Deal lawyers are constantly trying to agree with each other, which must be very tiresome. 

How much do you conform to the spiky litigator stereotype? 
Not much. Although litigation is a competitive process, I much prefer to get on with the lawyers and business people on the other side. Having said that I do have a temper, which occasionally comes to the fore.  

What most annoys you about the legal profession?
How could anything be annoying in a profession full of such kind-hearted, clever and principled people? 

Do you see yourself having a career outside law? 
If I am offered the manager's job at Leeds United I might take it.

What's your favourite item of clothing?
There are two. My golf glove and my Leeds United scarf. In fact I suspect I have worn my Leeds tie more than the scarf this season, which probably says something about the stage of lifeI have reached.

What's your favourite cheese?
Wensleydale.