John Mortimer

Novelist, playwright, and former barrister Sir John Mortimer (1923-2009) is best-known as the creator of comic lawyer Rumpole of the Bailey, whose dedication to cheap wine and motto "never plead guilty," has made him one of literature’s most enduring characters.

Mortimer's primary specialty in law was criminal defense, civil rights (particularly freedom of speech and censorship cases), and liberal causes. He was also actively involved in the British Labour Party.

Legend has it that Mortimer would threaten his colleagues in the British legal system with being written into the Rumpole stories if he perceived that they had said or done something stupid.

He numerous honors include becoming a Queen's Counsel in 1966, and being knighted in 1998.