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

John and Hayley return for Episode 89 with a festive Christmas special featuring jumpers, Only Fools and Horses nostalgia, and even a Formula One cameo before diving into two major topics for aspiring and junior lawyers.First, they announce the launch of the Commercial Awareness Club, explaining what commercial awareness really means, why firms test it in interviews, and how the Autumn Budget 2025 affects clients. If you’ve ever struggled with “thinking commercially,” this episode breaks it down simply and practically.They then explore the big legal story of the moment: proposals to scale back jury trials in England and Wales. John explains how jury trials currently work, what the leaked reforms could change, and why many in the profession are concerned about judge-only trials and their impact on fairness and efficiency.A must-listen for anyone interested in criminal law, commercial awareness, pupillage and training contract preparation, or legal news.If you enjoy the episode, make sure to follow the podcast and leave us a rating — it really helps us reach more aspiring lawyers.

Welcome back to Episode 88 of the Speed Mooting Partners in Crime Podcast!This week, John and Hayley dive deep into the future of legal careers - how the profession is shifting, and what aspiring solicitors and barristers need to prepare for.We break down the major changes happening right now:🔹 The rise of technology and AI in everyday practice🔹 Remote and hybrid hearings becoming increasingly normal🔹 A renewed focus on lawyer wellbeing, healthy culture and sustainable careersPlus, in this week’s #AskSpeedSquad, we answer two big questions from our listeners:❓ How do I know which area of law is right for me?❓ Does taking a gap year or career break look bad?If you’re planning your future in law, this episode is packed with honest insight and practical advice from people who’ve lived it.📌 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions for next week’s #AskSpeedSquad!

In this episode, we break down the most common mistakes aspiring lawyers make - and how to avoid them. If you're pursuing pupillage, a training contract, or still navigating law school, these insights will help you stay focused, intentional, and ahead of the curve.We explore why so many future barristers and solicitors fall into the same traps, how to turn setbacks into powerful learning moments, and the practical steps you can take to strengthen your legal journey.If you’re serious about a career in law, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and the tools to keep moving forward.

In this episode, John and Hayley reflect on the recently released Caroline Flack documentary to explore how criminal prosecutions work. They discuss the sensitive subject of assault by beating, and outline the two‑stage test used by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to decide whether cases proceed to trial.They also answer listener questions in our popular #AskSpeedSquad segment👉 Subscribe to the podcast for more thoughtful discussions on criminal law and advocacy, and visit speedmooting.com to learn more about how we can help you on your legal journey.

In this mini-catch-up episode, John and Hayley are filling you in on everything they've been up to over the past few weeks - from the buzz of the Liverpool Law Society Legal Awards to the newest developments in Speed Mooting.It’s a short and sweet check in while the team settles back in after their honeymoon, but don’t worry, they will be back next week with a full, feature-length episode!