Professor John Phillips was called to the Bar in 1975. Although he now teaches and practices Contract and Intellectual Property he initially completed a Criminal Pupillage at 5 King’s Bench Walk. After completing Pupillage, he decided that before settling down to a full-time career in legal practice he wanted to travel the world first. And that he did. In 1975, Professor Phillips joined the University of Queensland as a part-time member of staff. He enjoyed the close relationship and encouragement between the academic law and legal profession in Australia so much that he stayed for many years.

King’s Bench: Describe yourself in 3 words…

John Phillips: Just an ordinary fella.

KB: Why did you choose to practice and teach law?

JP: The role of the academic should be valued more greatly and there should be a closer relationship between legal academics and legal practitioners. Legal academics benefit from involvement with legal practice. I’ve personally benefited greatly from practising and teaching as it has improved my writing and allows me to give a wider perspective to the students.

KB: Are the stories you recite in Contract lectures about your painter true?

JP: They are broadly true.

KB: What’s been the highlight of your career so far?

JP: I’ve never really bothered with my career.

KB: Really, I don’t believe you?

JP: It’s true!

KB: What would you say are your life achievements?

JP: Scoring centuries in cricket and beating Conor Gearty at tennis – he used to teach at King’s but he now works across at the LSE and is a very good friend of mine.

KB: Have you ever been sued?

JP: No. And nor would I bother suing anyone, it’s a waste of money!

KB: What’s the most you have ever paid for a haircut?

JP: I haven’t paid for a haircut in 20 years as my wife cuts my hair for me. The last time I paid for a haircut, it probably cost 3 shillings!

KB: What’s the most expensive thing you own, apart from your house and your car?

JP: I have a flat in France, does that count?

KB: No, something apart from a house or flat.

JP: Okay then, probably some pieces of furniture.

KB: What SPF do you wear?

JP: I don’t often wear sun cream at all, but when I do, I use factor 16.

KB: You always dress very well, who would you say is your favoured designer?

JP: Armani, without a doubt.

KB: What car do you drive?

JP: Five series.

KB: Very impressive. Have there ever been any times when you just wanted to cry?

JP: Oh yes, many times! Especially when I have to mark contract scripts.

KB: You have had a hard day at work, what do you like to watch when you get home?

JP: The Sopranos.

KB: Really. Would you say that you are a sports fanatic?

JP: I enjoy both watching and playing cricket and tennis.

KB: Do you eat your five-a-day?

JP: Yes. I eat a lot fruit and I have just got a juicer so I like making fruit juices with that – particularly melon, orange, pear and carrot juice.

KB: Do you drink 2 litres of water everyday?

JP: Probably not. I didn’t know you were supposed to drink that much.

KB: What kind of food do you enjoy the most?

JP: Thai.

KB: Where do you like to go on holiday if you get the chance?

JP: That’s hard to say, but probably the South of France.