John Dove: Breaking Barriers and Winning the Diversity and Inclusion Award
John Dove: Breaking Barriers and Winning the Diversity and Inclusion Award
On 14th March a truly inspiring moment in the legal world unfolded at the LexisNexis Legal Awards 2025. Our founder, John Dove, was awarded the prestigious Diversity and Inclusion Award for his work in transforming access to the legal profession. And it’s a victory that means much more than just an award, it’s a triumph for social equality, representation, and the power of perseverance.
A Scouser with Big Dreams
John Dove’s journey to becoming a barrister wasn’t paved with connections, privilege, or an easy path. In fact, he didn’t come from the traditional background many associate with success in law. He was, and still is, a "scouser from Liverpool" with big dreams. He had no family members working in law, no professional role models to guide him, and no easy access to the resources many others take for granted. For John, entering the legal profession meant facing an uphill battle, a battle that took a staggering 11 years to overcome fully.
But John’s story is one of persistence. It’s about the grit to keep going when the odds are stacked against you. It’s about turning obstacles into opportunities, and that’s exactly what he’s done. Through sheer determination, John broke into the criminal justice system, becoming a barrister and making a real impact - not just in the courtroom, but in the lives of countless aspiring legal professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.
A Champion for Diversity and Inclusion
John’s recognition at the LexisNexis Legal Awards is a direct result of his tireless work to increase diversity and inclusion in the legal field. He’s not just about making a name for himself; he’s about creating a platform for others to do the same. His work with Speed Mooting, Advocacy Club, and the Northern Pupillage Fair has opened doors for aspiring lawyers who may have once thought a career in law was out of reach.
The award, which was presented by Tony Robinson, is a testament to John’s efforts. Robinson’s words were a powerful endorsement of John’s impact: “The winner goes above and beyond to create real opportunities in law, drawing from lived experience to mentor, advocate, and empower others. Their passion and dedication are leaving a lasting impression on diversity and inclusion in the profession.”
But it’s not just about the accolades for John. It’s about the opportunity to create lasting change, to mentor young aspiring lawyers, and to break down the barriers that so many face in the pursuit of a legal career. John’s work through Speed Mooting and the Northern Pupillage Fair has helped countless individuals gain access to invaluable networking opportunities, mentorship, and the chance to prove themselves in a field that has historically been seen as inaccessible for many.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Supporters
While the award may have been his name on the plaque, John knows that this success was not achieved alone. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who helped along the way. A special shout-out went to his fiancée and business partner, Hayley Crombleholme, who plays an integral role in the success of Speed Mooting, and to his parents, who have been unwavering supporters at every event. John also acknowledged the many legal professionals who share his vision and continue to support initiatives that make the profession more inclusive.
For John, this award isn’t just about recognition - it’s a continuation of his journey to make the legal world a more inclusive, diverse, and equal place.
