Jason Bruce, practice director at the national legal aid specialist Duncan Lewis & Co Solicitors, shares his passions and interests

How do you like to start the day?

I like to start the day with a cup of coffee and a quick read-through of the latest legal news to stay updated on current events and trends in the industry. It’s important to stay ahead of the curve in this business.

What’s your favourite object in your office/home office?

"My favourite object in my home office is a massive whiteboard that sits behind my three screens. It's essential for capturing all my notes and ideas, helping me manage the many thought processes that come with working for a large firm like Duncan Lewis. It's truly a lifesaver.

Who is your closest colleague?

I don’t think it would be appropriate to single out one person, but through working at Duncan Lewis, and in law generally, I have been introduced to many wonderful colleagues, who are dedicated to ensuring justice for their clients and vital improvements in the legal system.

Do you have a favourite family heirloom?

My favourite family heirloom would have to be a signed copy of my late father’s memoir, Freefall (published under the pseudonym Tom Read), along with his SAS Queen’s Gallantry Medal. However, I don't place much value on objects in that way. For me, it’s more about the people and the memories I've made with them. It’s the moments shared and the stories passed down that truly matter, not the things we leave behind.

What’s your favourite song of all time?

“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. It’s unpredictable, genre-defying, and brilliantly over the top—much like working in law, where anything can happen.

What’s your favourite play?

Glengarry Glen Ross by David Mamet. It’s a raw, gritty portrayal of ambition, desperation, and the high-stakes world of sales. The sharp dialogue and moral ambiguity remind me that, just like in law, words can be both weapons and shields.

Who’s your favourite movie star?

Audrey Hepburn. Her grace, intelligence, and timeless style are captivating, and her roles often combine charm with a sense of strength and integrity, qualities I admire both in film and in life.

What’s your favourite book?

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky. It’s a deep dive into the human psyche and the moral dilemmas we face. The exploration of guilt, redemption, and justice resonates with the complexities of the legal world and the choices we make every day. I should also mention The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, which is all about realising your dreams. My father had urged me to read it for years, and it became the first book I picked up just weeks after he passed away, right when I was starting out in law. It felt like powerful messages from beyond the grave, and its impact has stayed with me ever since."

What book are you reading right now?

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari. It provides a great perspective on human development and societal structures.

What book do you wish you had written?

1984 by George Orwell. It’s a masterclass in capturing the power dynamics and psychological control within society. I admire how it explores the themes of truth, freedom, and the law in a way that still feels relevant today.

What’s the greatest invention of all time?

The internet. It has revolutionised how we access information and communicate, fundamentally transforming the legal profession.

Is there a sport you wish you could play?

Tennis. It seems like a fantastic way to combine strategy, fitness, and precision.

Who inspires you in business?

Dame Inga Beale. As the first female CEO of Lloyd’s of London, she broke barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovative thinking, along with her ability to lead and transform businesses, is truly inspiring for someone like me, who has built my career from the ground up and values resilience and progressive leadership.

In the office do you dress up, dress down, or somewhere in between?

Up. I believe in dressing professionally. I love a good suit, and feel a little sad about the closure of many of the traditional tailors around the City.

Where do you go to relax?

I love going to a quiet beach where I can listen to the waves and clear my mind.

What country have you always wanted to visit?

Japan. I’m fascinated by its blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation.

Besides your phone, what do you always have with you?

A notebook and pen. You never know when an idea or important thought might strike.

What’s the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is knowing that we are making a difference to people’s lives by advocating for justice, especially that Duncan Lewis, being the largest provider of legal aid services in the UK, gives a voice to those who would not normally have access to the law.

How do you unwind after work?

I unwind by reading a good book or playing board games with my family.

Finally, what’s your guilty pleasure?

Dark chocolate and binging true crime documentaries on Netflix.

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