I read with interest your article on the long-awaited publication of the report of the cost of the Public Defender Service (see [2007] Gazette, 11 January, 1).


I started my practice in 1999 before the Legal Services Commission commenced. I started it with £10,000 and in fact it only cost me £5,000 to get up and running. I still have the other £5,000.



The practice has never been in the red and assists in supporting myself, one employed solicitor and three secretaries. Whether that continues after Carter remains to be seen. I did not need to read the report on the Public Defender Service to regard my firm as a success, but having read it I have no doubt that it is due to my being small and lean.



If Lord Falconer or Lord Carter would like any advice on being small and lean, they only have to ask me.



G Pearson, Freeman-Pearson, Sunderland