Blackstone Chambers, Five Raymond Buildings, One Brick Court, Doughty Street, Matrix Chambers, Three Stone Buildings, Hogarth Buildings. These are among the names most often mentioned when litigators in the entertainment, media and sports worlds are asked whom they consult at the Bar. Ian Mill QC, Geoffrey Hobbs QC, Stephen Bate and Pushpinder Saini are among the individuals most often referred to in glowing terms.

But views vary considerably. Although all of the above are well regarded, some solicitors will stick with the same individuals year after year and will not have strong views on other barristers practising in the field. Other law firms deliberately keep in touch with a wide range of barristers, clerks and sets as their way of getting the best out of the Bar.