In practice, a combination of economics and geography means that much of its infrastructure is concentrated in a comparatively small number of places.

ECONOMIST: How the internet works

The combination of generous inheritance laws and the practice of polygamy meant that wealth was dispersed among numerous claimants.

ECONOMIST: Schumpeter

Sonya Leydecker, head of the firm's global disputes practice, said the decision to open in Belfast would enable Herbert Smith to offer clients "a very attractive combination of quality, efficiency and value for money".

BBC: 'Top law firm' brings jobs to Belfast