NLJ Profile: Irfan Baluch, Cripps

What was most satisfying about seeing your work recognised at the LexisNexis Legal Awards this year?

Receiving the business development award for our GDPR campaign was a huge boost for the team. We didn’t go into the process expecting to win and we were thrilled to be recognised, especially given the high calibre of the other firms shortlisted. The award shone a spotlight on the innovative work we have been doing around GDPR and Data Protection and gave us an opportunity to engage with a much broader audience.

What was your route into the profession?

I have a degree in engineering and worked as a software developer before qualifying as a lawyer.

What has been your biggest career challenge so far?

Setting up a new law firm (Vertex Law LLP) from scratch has to be the biggest challenge I have faced. It was a big leap of faith for both our clients and colleagues and thankfully it paid off!

Which person within the legal profession inspires you most?

As a law student, I enjoyed reading Lord Denning’s judgments. While often controversial, I found his pragmatism and innovative approach and analysis inspiring.

If you weren’t a lawyer, what would you choose as an alternate career?

I would probably be a software engineer. I enjoyed the creativity, problem solving and logical thinking required for that kind of role – not an entirely different skill set from that of a technology lawyer!

Who is your favourite fictional lawyer?

When I was a kid I loved LA Law, no one particular character. Nowadays, I would say Saul Goodman (Better Call Saul) or Louis Litt (Suits).

How do you relax?

I love travelling and enjoy just chilling out with my family.

Entries for the LexisNexis Legal Awards 2019 are now open, and should be submitted at www.lexisnexislegalawards.co.uk by the closing date of Friday 16 November 2018. The awards ceremony will be held at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane on Wednesday 13 March 2019.