Speed Mooting Podcast - Training tomorrow's lawyers, today!

In this episode of the Speed Mooting: Partners in Crime Podcast, John answers listener questions in another “Ask Speed Mooting” special, covering key topics for aspiring lawyers and those developing their advocacy skills. 
From understanding the difference between mooting and mock trials, to practical advice on advocacy, preparation, and court practice, this episode provides clear and accessible insights into how to improve as an advocate.
John also discusses whether regional accents matter in court, how remote hearings have changed legal practice, and how to rebuild confidence in advocacy after time away.
If you’re looking to build confidence, improve your advocacy, and better understand the realities of legal practice, this episode is a great place to start.

In this episode of the Speed Mooting: Partners in Crime Podcast, John answers listener questions in another “Ask Speed Mooting” special, covering key topics for aspiring lawyers and law students. 
From common advocacy mistakes and how to improve your skills, to practical advice on building experience outside of mooting, this episode offers clear and honest guidance for anyone looking to develop as an advocate.
John also shares insights from his own journey from solicitor to barrister, discusses the realities of working in the profession, and explains whether your choice of Inn of Court really matters.
If you’re looking to build confidence, improve your advocacy, and better understand the legal profession, this episode is a great place to start.

In this episode, John Dove unpacks the viral question:
“How do lawyers defend clients they know are guilty?”
Following a TikTok clip that reached over 1 million views, John responds to common misconceptions and explains the reality of criminal defence practice.
He covers:
The meaning of professional embarrassment
Why lawyers cannot lie or mislead the court
How defence lawyers can still act by challenging evidence
The role of legal privilege and confidentiality
Whether defence strategies change based on who pays
The impact of not giving evidence
How guilty pleas and sentencing discounts work
A clear, practical breakdown of how ethics, advocacy, and the justice system intersect in real life.

Episode 105, the Bortoletto & Vettel special , is all about spring cleaning your CV 🌱
With pupillage and application season approaching, we share practical tips on how to get your CV into top shape - from keeping it up to date and cutting the waffle, to formatting, proofreading, and making a strong first impression.
We also cover:
How to start advocacy with zero experience
The roles that best prepare you for a legal career
Book recommendations (and a few unexpected takes…)
A mix of practical advice, real experiences, and light-hearted discussion, exactly what you’d expect from Speed Mooting.
If you’ve got a question, drop us a message or email [email protected]

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This episode introduces the Legal Skills Academy — a new, structured programme designed to help aspiring lawyers develop core legal skills with real progression and recognition.
We explain:
Why we created the Legal Skills Academy
How it brings together advocacy, public speaking, debating, and commercial awareness
What makes it different from traditional legal training
How it helps you build evidence-backed skills for applications and practice
We also touch on:
Our 2-year podcast milestone
Insights from our recent viral legal discussion
Listener questions on standing out in a competitive legal market
🎯 If you're serious about developing as a future lawyer, this episode is essential listening.
📩 Questions? Email [email protected] or connect with us on social media.