Food of love

In these cynical days of a profession moving into becoming a business, it is good to know there is still room for romance in the law (and that doesn't mean a quick tryst on the photocopier while pulling an all-nighter).

Welsh firm Leo Abse & Co decided to mark last Friday by delivering to all staff in its Cardiff and Swansea offices a special Valentine's card and chocolates from the partners and management team 'as a token of the firm's appreciation'.

How nice, but let's hope they haven't started something they will come to regret and find themselves in need of a policy on office relationships.

But love will remain in the air around Obiter's desk for weeks to come, as we have just received an invitation to a reception next month hosted by London family law firm Margaret Bennett Solicitors.

On top of the canapes, it promises 'an interlude of songs of love' by jazz singer Rachael Pennell.

By the time many of Ms Bennett's clients cross her threshold, it is a tad late for such music, but 'make love not law' may yet become a rallying call.