Who? Matthew Dowd, partner and co-founder of Archerfield Partners, London.

Why is he in the news? Represented French actress Eva Green (pictured below with Daniel Craig while filming Casino Royale), who won a High Court case over her $1m fee for a sci-fi film, titled ‘A Patriot’, that was never made. 

Eva Green and Daniel Craig

Thoughts on the case: ‘I don’t think the judgment is groundbreaking in terms of making new law, but it is a useful reminder of the law of renunciation and how highly fact-specific it is. The facts were unusual in that the directors of the company alleging renunciation supported Eva. It was also a reminder that when a determined French actress and her English lawyers get the bit between their teeth, they won’t be easily knocked off the ball.’

Dealing with the media: ‘The case generated massive global media interest ranging from the Straits Times in the east to the Hollywood Reporter in the west. Most of the enquiries we received were measured and professional, though outside court I did manage a minor altercation with an overly exuberant “pap” trying to get too close to Eva.’

Why become a lawyer? ‘I think I’m one of a long list of failed actors/musicians who decided to become a media and entertainment lawyer, seeing it as the next best thing. It certainly hasn’t let me down in terms of career fulfilment.’

Career high: ‘Meeting Michael Jackson and spending two weeks in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and the Palm, Las Vegas, taking witness statements. Thankfully I managed the odd evening off.’

Career low: ‘Acting for [poker player] Phil Ivey in the High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. We lost the final appeal and the case changed the criminal law test for dishonesty.’

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