Yes, I know the law is full of stange old words and phrases. Don't blame me! If I don't use many of them I get into trouble at Court for being rude, they are so ingrained.
Let's look at one. My learned friend often shortened to M'learned friend. Note--as they take it very seriously--if is said "lurr ned" not "lurrnd"!
It actually means you are referring to a barrister, such as our specialist family law barrister Lisa Smith.
I got this wrong once in Court, not realising I was referring to a barrister and said "my friend". The barrister very rudely objected but I was relieved to hear the Judge say to him "If you speak to people like that, I'm amazed you have any friends"!
Andrew Woolley
Divorce Solicitor and....... friend.