Rude & Crude: no, it’s not the name of a new commercial law firm. Rather they are character attributes lawyers need to adopt to succeed in an increasingly ruthless and demanding world. Or do they?

How much does a smile cost? Are screaming insults an optional extra or are they part of the service? In a world where brevity is wit and manners seem to be missing in action, are the simple courtesies too much to ask for when paying $300 per hour for legal advice?

Axes will be sharpened and punches will definitely not be pulled in the ever-vital Legal Comedy Debate as we determine once and for all whether lawyers are rude and crude - or just plain misunderstood.