The Lawyer Inquiry: Christine Winter was born 30-something years ago in Carshalton, Surrey. She is a partner at Berrymans Lace Mawer.

What subject(s) did you fail at school?

None.

What was your first job?

Working in a bread shop.

What was your first ever salary as a lawyer?

u25 per week.

What would you have done if you hadn't been a lawyer?

Nurse.

What was your most satisfying professional moment?

Winning the passive smoke case last year.

What was your most embarrassing professional moment?

Swearing an affidavit saying one thing and then having to swear another saying the opposite after a client found some documents. Fortunately the High Court judge understood the situation.

What do you least like about being a lawyer?

Deadlines.

And the best thing about being a lawyer?

Meeting people from different walks of life.

What annoys you most about clients?

Getting files with inadequate information on them the day before a defence is due.

Who do you most admire, and why?

Louis Pasteur - without his discovery I would probably have died years ago.

Which famous person or historical figure would be your ideal client, and why?

John Mortimer - he would understand the legal problems and make them humorous.

What is your most annoying habit?

Being late.

What is your biggest fear?

Being a bag lady.

How do you relax?

Golf, skiing and visiting beauty salons.

What is your most precious possession?

My health.

Where would you most like to be right now?

Skiing in St Anton.

In 10 years' time, where do you see yourself?

I hope to be looking back on a successful career.

To take part in the Inquiry call Jemma Pearson on 0171 970 4614