Those concerned that the ‘pillar of the community’ image once enjoyed by the solicitors’ profession is now crumbling, like an ancient ruin, may be interested to read the findings of some research examining which lawyers have received the most press coverage in the last year. According to an analysis by legal publishers Sweet & Maxwell, celebrity defence lawyer Nick Freeman – more commonly known as ‘Mr Loophole’, a title he has actually trademarked – is this year’s most high-profile solicitor, having appeared in no fewer than 120 national press articles. The Loopster used to work for Greater Manchester Police, and now specialises in defending motoring offences – with considerable success. He has successfully acted for celebrities, including comedian Jimmy Carr; footballer David Beckham; and TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson, pictured. Freeman bagged more than twice as much coverage as 2009’s most-featured lawyer, the ‘Steel Magnolia’ divorce specialist Fiona Shackleton, who got a measly 56 mentions during the year. The most cited barrister was the eminent Michael Mansfield QC, who represented several clients in relation to the Bloody Sunday inquiry.