Addleshaws litigation partner Mark Hastings on acting for an oligarch and Rumpole's influence

Why did you become a lawyer? I grew up watching Rumpole of the Bailey and was hooked!

What's the closest you have come to doing something other than law? When I was a child, I wanted to be a policeman. Does that count? 

Aside from your own firm, which lawyer do you most admire and why? Brick Court Chambers' Mark Howard QC – a brilliant advocate and utterly fearless. Definitely a man you want in your corner when you're in a tight spot. 

What's your proudest professional moment? Winning the Berezovsky v Abramovich strike-out application and having the decision upheld in the Court of Appeal.

…and worst day on the job? Losing a chunky interim application for a key client of the firm. We went on to win the next one, though, which effectively ended the case and resulted in a very favourable settlement for the client. 

What advice would you give to young litigators starting out? Always get under the skin of the case and always question.

What's the best part of your job? The thrill of achieving a great result for the client.

Why become a law firm litigator rather than a barrister? If you want to have more direct contact with clients and get close to their business, you need to join a law firm rather than become a barrister.

How does the average litigator differ from a deal lawyer? Traditionally, we used to get more sleep. How times have changed! 

What's the toughest ethical/moral dilemma your job has ever presented you with? Having to turn down a very significant case due to a conflict.

What most annoys you about the legal profession? The profession can be immensely conservative.

What's your strongest characteristic…and worst trait? My strongest characteristic is that I never give up. Unfortunately, that can easily translate into stubbornness…

What's the worst corporate event you've ever attended? I try to avoid them.

Most memorable case you have ever worked on and why? The Berezovsky litigation. It's difficult to imagine another case that could throw up so many interesting factual and legal issues, as well as involving such fascinating personalities. It takes in the collapse of communism, the rise of the oligarchs and Putin's ascension to power. It's effectively the story of modern Russia. 

What will be the most significant market trend over the next 12 months? Lawyers will have to become increasingly innovative in terms of pricing.

Do you see yourself having a career outside law? No – I love my job.

What's your strongest card – technical wizardry or smooth client skills? I wouldn't claim either but, if I had to pick one, it would be my client skills.

What's your favourite TV depiction of a litigation lawyer? It would have to be a tie between Rumpole and Arnold Becker in LA Law.  

Aside from your clients, which business figure do you most admire and why? Sir Richard Branson – for his ability to connect with people, and for overcoming adversity in the form of dyslexia to achieve success. 

What's your favourite item of clothing? A Ralph Lauren jacket.

What's your favourite cheese?  Roquefort – it's smooth but with plenty of bite!