John and Hayley are back from Tenerife and straight into podcast mode - sun kissed, slightly jet-lagged, and ready to tease some huge news coming next week. In this shorter check-in episode, they chat about holiday reflections, wedding ring shopping, upcoming advocacy events, and a developing story about AI-generated legal authorities making waves in court. Plus, John explains the “seven gateways” for bad character evidence under the Criminal Justice Act 2003—by popular request.

In this episode, Hayley and John dive into the art of persuasion in advocacy—why keeping it simple, speaking slowly, and using pauses can make or break your delivery. They share practical tips for improving your advocacy skills and explain why being invested in your case matters, even when you don’t agree with your client.They also answer listener questions, including:🔹 How to get better at advocacy (hint: get your reps in!)🔹 Whether visible tattoos, piercings, or coloured hair are acceptable in the legal profession🔹 Why watching great speakers (including WWE’s Paul Heyman!) can sharpen your courtroom skillsPlus, they highlight the Speed Mooting Advocacy Club—a free, inclusive space to practice advocacy in a low-pressure environment.🎧 Tune in, learn, and get inspired!

In this packed episode of Speed Mooting: Partners in Crime, Hayley and John cover everything from the recent Wrestlemania results (spoiler warning!) to practical legal skills that every aspiring lawyer should be working on. Across the episode, they discuss:- The dos and don’ts of legal CVs and how honesty always trumps bravado.- Smart strategies to gain legal experience when you're just starting out.- How junior lawyers can develop sound legal judgment and why feedback, mentoring, and repetition are your best friends.- A sneak peek into the next Advocacy Club session on emergency family law applications (learn more at speedmooting.com)⚖️ This episode delivers value, laughs, and loads of practical tips. Enjoy!

In this special Easter Bank holiday episode of Speed Mooting: Partners in Crime Podcast, Hayley and John bounce from the courtroom to church to the WrestleMania ring — with a solid dose of legal insight along the way. This week’s highlights:- An insider's look into the Crown Court and what to expect as an observer- An honest chat about how to use case law effectively — what counts as authority, what to avoid, and how to stand out in submissions- A sneak peek at upcoming Advocacy Club sessions, including a family law special with guest speakers -The Plea in Mitigation Competition launch — and it's filling up fast -Hints about a game-changing new project that they will be announcing very soon 👀- Hayley and John’s Easter journey into Catholicism And some surprisingly informed WrestleMania predictions (plus a reluctant Paul Heyman appearance)Comment below with your WrestleMania picks, and if you listened all the way through, drop us a “May it please the court” in the comments! Subscribe, rate us 5 stars on Spotify, and check out speedmooting.com to get involved!

In this episode, John and Hayley share their ultimate pupillage and training contract interview disasters — from giving wildly wrong answers to making up entire practice areas on the spot 😅.

But it’s not all horror stories, the legal duo also advice on bouncing back from bad interviews, what not to do in the hot seat, and why it’s better to be honest than impressive.

Plus, get updates on upcoming Speed Mooting events, including our first-ever Family Law Advocacy Club and the return of the Northern Pupillage Fair!

In this episode, John chats with Emma Bowie, Chambers Manager at the leading chambers, 18 St John Street, about the real-world challenges and behind the scenes workings of life at the Bar. From the importance of organisation and admin for junior barristers, to the growing role of tech and AI in chambers, Emma shares invaluable advice for those at the start of their legal careers.They also discuss:⚖️ Common misconceptions about barrister life📅 Making the leap from pupillage to tenancy🧠 Tips on networking, wellbeing, and staying on top of the workload; and 🤖 Emma's take on AI’s growing role in legal practiceWhether you’re a law student, future pupil, or just curious about life behind the courtroom doors, this episode’s packed with wisdom and a few laughs along the way!

In this special episode of the Speed Mooting Podcast, John and Hayley celebrate their first year of podcasting, reflecting on the journey, growth, and valuable discussions they’ve shared with their audience. The conversation then shifts to the art of mooting, with John and Hayley discussing the challenges and strategies involved in preparing for and participating in moots. The episode wraps up with a detailed discussion on legal disclosure in criminal cases, focusing on the process in magistrates' courts. John explains how the prosecution must disclose evidence and unused material, and how the defence can request further information to ensure a fair trial.This episode offers a blend of personal reflection, practical legal advice, and expert insights. Whether you’re a law student, aspiring barrister, or legal enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable information and tips for success in the legal world.

In this episode of the Partners in Crime Podcast, John and Hayley bring you a special, live-from-Italy edition as they share their experiences at John's brother's wedding in a charming rural Italian town.

From the cultural differences, like the eight-course wedding meal (with oysters, horse meat, and more), to navigating the chaotic Italian roads, the duo offers a lighthearted and fun recount. They also reflect on a whole year of this Podcast and they make a big announcement about their 2025 Northern Pupillage Fair !

With celebrations for new silks, a glimpse into their busy work-life balance, and a sneak peek at upcoming events, this episode wraps up with an Italian farewell and a teaser for what's next.

In this episode, criminal barrister, John Dove and and Commercial Solicitor, Hayley Crombleholme dive into their personal and professional journeys in law, discussing the long road to success and the emotional highs and lows of reaching career milestones. John reflects on the challenges he's overcome, especially dealing with rejection, and the deep meaning behind receiving an award at the recent LexisNexis Legal Awards! They then shift gears to talk about the realities of working in high-pressure legal environments. Hayley shares her insights on coping with stress, recognising limits, and the importance of seeking support when it's needed. Both agree on the necessity of finding the right fit in a work environment that aligns with your personal needs and limits.Don't miss your latest fix from the Speed Squad Duo!

In this episode, lawyer duo John and Hayley dive into the challenges managing nerves when public speaking for new lawyers. From the reality of courtroom strategies to the nerves that come with speaking in public, we share practical tips to build confidence. Whether you’re struggling with witness responses or unsure how to handle cross-examination, it’s all about asking the right questions and learning from each experience. We also talk about overcoming the initial nerves, and how practice and preparation make all the difference!