Specialism seems to be a key requirement for external legal service providers. We mainly use Lovells for commercial and intellectual property matters. In corporate matters, the group switched from using Lovells to Norton Rose because of its long-term relationship with Trinity. The legal arrangements of the group are clearly divided. Collier-Wright himself will handle enquiries from the regional titles.
Editorial work is treated differently and always done in-house unless litigation is involved.
The group uses magic circle chambers Brick Court Chambers and 5 Raymond Buildings for defamation work and 4-5 Gray's Inn Square for intellectual property matters. Collier-Wright says that his role is variable. I have a roving role covering all legal aspects of the business. I contribute to the editorial legal function but that work is now covered by the three editorial lawyers. However, I do advise the regional newspaper titles and other group-wide editorial issues as and when required.