Philip Goodstone is one of the leading partners in Addleshaw Goddard’s much-touted Manchester corporate team
Why did you become a lawyer?
By accident rather than design. In the late 1980s lawyers were in high demand and, having nothing else planned after university, it felt like a good idea to help meet that demand.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
My father - without his guidance I would probably be starting my 18th consecutive gap year.
What’s your proudest professional moment?
I’m afraid that pride always comes before a fall. I did, however, go through my full routine of great goal celebrations when I became a partner (in private, of course).
...and worst day on the job?
As a litigation trainee, being asked to clean the filing cabinet of the senior associate I was sat with. I learned two important lessons that day: the first was how not to treat people and the second that my career in litigation was at an end.
Aside from your own firm, which lawyer do you most admire and why?
My wife. To be married to me, a great mum and still practise law requires a unique blend of tolerance, patience and talent (in that order).
What’s your strongest characteristic... and worst trait?
My enthusiasm. I really can be very, very annoying (as the lawyer I most admire will confirm).
How do you think assistants in your team view you?
Not as well as I would like, nor as badly as I fear.
What advice would you give to young deal lawyers starting out?
To quote Bob Dylan, “there is no road to happiness, happiness is the road”. Make sure you enjoy it and make the most of what can be a great profession.
What’s the best part of your job?
The people. I am lucky enough to work with great people and great clients.
What’s your strongest card - technical wizardry or smooth client skills (you can only pick one)?
On the basis of elimination it will have to be smooth client skills.
What most annoys you about the legal profession?
The constant inability to understand that what we do has no value unless we put it in the context of what our clients need.
What’s the daftest bit of corporate jargon you’ve heard (and did you smirk)?
On one job my client, fed up with all the jargon, asked the other side for a list of the TLAs. It was great fun as they had no idea what he was talking about (three-letter acronyms).
What will be the most significant market trend in terms of your practice area over the next 12 months?
That’s tough - the one certainty is that the landscape has changed from the benign conditions of the last few years (and with change comes opportunity).
Did you get any free flowers after working on the Interflora buy-out?
There is no such thing as free flowers - but I did get a lovely bouquet following the birth of my daughter.
What is the most common misconception trainees have about Addleshaws before they arrive?
I wouldn’t pretend to know - I do know that few like the thought of a corporate seat but most enjoy it once they’ve done it.
Why should aspiring lawyers join your firm?
It really is a great place. The trainees spent their first week this year building a school in Romania - what a great opportunity to work together and to get some wider perspective that what we do is not the be-all and end-all.
What’s the best bit of advice Paul Lee has ever given you?
Always try to be one step ahead.
Can you still tell a Manchester lawyer from a Yorkshire man or has everyone succumbed to the nationals’ advance?
You’ll have to ask the nationals that one.
What would you do if you weren’t a lawyer?
Heaven knows, but I’m sure I would be very enthusiastic about it.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Hopefully as happy as I am now - but larger and greyer, no doubt.
What’s your favourite item of clothing?
Anything my children wear.
What would you put on your tombstone?
Smile please.
What’s your favourite cheese?
That depends on what I’m eating and who I’m with.
