The Lawyer Inquiry: Maurice Martin was born in LOndon in 1949. He is senior partner at Tario Lyons in London.

What subject(s) did you fail at school?

Chemistry and physics.



What was your first job?

Gardener.



What was your first ever salary as a lawyer?

u14 per week (great for killing off calls from insurance salesmen).



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

Played football for Watford FC and England.



What was your most satisfying professional moment?

Witnessing the 'not guilty' verdict on my first innocent client. (They do exist, you know.)



What was your most embarrassing professional moment?

Running into the Gents next door to Master Lubbock's room with a minute to spare before a hearing, only to discover I had entered the Master's room.



What do you least like about being a lawyer?

Being quoted law by other lawyers.



And the best thing about being a lawyer?

Being able to advise clients constructively when they are in difficulty.



What annoys you most about clients?

Their unfailing knack of phoning you five minutes before you phone them.



Who do you admire most, and why?

Nurses and doctors in the NHS, who work so hard for so little financial reward.



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

Paul Robeson. He'd be a fantastic witness and we would have great sing-songs while waiting to be called on.



What is your most annoying habit?

Making pussycat noises during partners' meetings.



How do you relax?

Long country walks with Monty (my 11-year-old bearded collie); steaming baths with essential oil of Clary Sage and Rosemary; or listening to the piano music of Erik Satie with a glass or three of Pinot Grigio.



What is your most precious possession?

I don't have one.



Where would you most like to be right now?

Enjoying lunch at Serge Perard in Le Touquet.



In 10 year's time, where do you see yourself?

As long as I still can, I don't mind where.



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