Pairing practical skills with the theory of law is what Amanda Liston is all about. As Director of Amanda Liston Legal and as a lawyer recommended by Doyles in Wills and Estates (2017), Amanda knows that succession law is often deceptively complex. In her experience, it is a field which can trigger a multitude of unexpected scenarios. Training for these scenarios is best done by way of practical workshops. From June to September, Amanda will be facilitating the WA Wills Skills Workshops, a series of “hands on” workshops which cover every aspect of wills and estates practice, from taking instructions to probate. Workshops can be attended as a whole, or as modular parts. Insights spoke to Amanda Liston about what attendees can expect from the workshops, as well as the experience she brings to her role as facilitator.
“The workshops are aimed at providing attendees with an understanding of basic issues relating to each topic of discussion and a guide to access resources for further research into more complex issues,” explained Amanda. Prior to each workshop, attendees will be provided with basic pre-reading materials to ensure a practical focus for the workshops.
“Interactive workshops allow the materials to be practically applied in small groups with an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience at various levels,” said Amanda.
Each workshop will commence with an informal discussion of the pre-reading material with the opportunity for attendees to ask questions and discuss the topic for the benefit of the whole group.
“The workshops are intended to be practical, rather than a mere academic lecture, with ample opportunity for open discussion and contribution of skills,” said Amanda. “The focus will be on practical application of the learning materials so that attendees will feel more prepared to address real life client issues and build relationships with fellow practitioners to share knowledge and experience for the benefit of our clients.”
Practical exercises will be a major feature of the workshops
“Attendees will learn the skills to create their own preliminary wills instruction sheet for clients, gain a better understanding of how to draft Wills, how to deal with assets which do not form part of a client’s personal estate and how to approach the administration of deceased estates,” said Amanda.
Amanda began her career in South Africa, having graduated from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. She then went on to complete an LLM (Applied Law) - Wills and Estates with the College of Law and found her own specialist firm, Amanda Liston Legal.
“I have been fortunate to learn about the practice of Wills and Estates from experienced solicitors both in South Africa and Australia,” said Amanda. She credits the College of Law’s LLM (Applied Law) with advancing her career and in particular, equipping her with practical skills, such as knowing when to look for more information, and where to find it.
“Practising in this area of the law requires an understanding of not only the legislation and case law relating to Wills and Estates, but also an interest in issues affecting persons and families at a deeply personal level,” said Amanda.
A growing, though often underestimated, field of law
“Solicitors commonly underestimate the complexity of the practice of wills and estates. Understanding the essential issues to address when taking instructions, identifying and dealing with complex asset structures or family circumstances and drafting a Will which accurately reflects the testator’s wishes is challenging,” said Amanda. Drafting a good Will, however, is essential to providing the level of service clients expect.
Despite these challenges, Amanda is enthusiastic about the opportunities for solicitors in Wills and Estates.
“There is a growing need for advice about planning for incapacity and death,” said Amanda. “Solicitors can make a valuable contribution to this need. Advising clients about these personal and often emotional issues can be challenging but also rewarding, knowing that it lies at the core of what matters most to our clients.”
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