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

This week, John and Hayley share a mix of personal updates and practical advice for aspiring lawyers. From navigating the journey to the Bar, to dealing with rejection, networking, and building confidence, this episode is an honest reflection on what it really takes to succeed in the legal profession.
They also talk through everything coming up at Speed Mooting, including competitions, live events, and the Northern Pupillage Fair, along with some exciting (and slightly secret) plans for the months ahead.
Whether you’re working towards pupillage, a training contract, or simply looking to improve your advocacy and legal skills, this episode is a reminder that the path isn’t always straightforward, but progress comes from persistence.
As always, expect a mix of insight, humour, and a bit of everything in between

In this episode, John and Hayley return with a big personal update - they’re expecting their first baby 👶 
They also dive into questions from aspiring lawyers, covering scholarships, networking without connections, and how to stand out in a competitive profession.
An honest, insightful episode with practical advice (and a few laughs along the way).

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.