Partners in Crime - Legal Podcast #33 - AskSpeedSquad - legal work experience & networking

In the latest episode, criminal barrister, John Dove and commercial solicitor, Hayley Crombleholme answered a number of questions:
1. I was wondering if you have any advice to getting work experience?
2. Do you have any tips or advice on how to make a start and get my foot in the legal industry?
3. Hayley - as a commercial solicitor, have you ever represented someone in a courtroom or tribunal? If so, would you say that the type of advocacy used is different compared to other areas of law?
4. I am doing a plea in mitigation competition but a pre sentence report was not given to us. Would you address the court as if there was one (so be creative) or should I just use the papers that have been given?