About

CPD Guide:1 PM, PS, SL The North-West Early Career Lawyers (NWECL) committee welcomes Matthew Verney KC who shares tips on achieving effective advocacy in case outlines and developing a good family law brief.

CPD: 1 point (PM, PS, SL)
Format: Livestreamed only
Recorded: With the presenter's consent

Session Outline

• An exploration of how to craft a persuasive, logically structured case outline that integrates theory, evidence, and law. Participants will learn practical techniques for presenting material succinctly and guiding decision-makers effectively.
• Tthe strategic purpose of a case outline is examined - why it should be developed early, and how to use it as a navigational tool to frame issues, streamline hearings, and prevent last-minute drafting chaos.
• A focus on briefing practices and collaboration with counsel. Participants will learn how to clarify a barrister’s preferred briefing style, enhance workflow, avoid miscommunication, and strengthen efficiency and professional relationships through early, purposeful dialogue.

Key Takeaways

• A strong case outline integrates case theory, supporting evidence and law into a clear, logical and persuasive narrative that assists the decision-maker.
• Case outlines should be prepared early and thoughtfully, not rushed or copied, and used as a roadmap guiding the court through your case.
• Discuss briefing preferences with counsel early to improve efficiency, clarify roles and expectations, and avoid unnecessary frustration or rework.

Presenter

Matthew Verney KC began his career as an employed lawyer in Devonport. Eight years later in 2003 he established his own firm, practising as a principal until November 2021, when he was called to the Bar. His early work included criminal and civil litigation, before he developed a primary focus on family law and child protection matters.

Matthew has a strong commitment to professional service and the administration of justice. He served for 10 years on the Council of the Law Society of Tasmania, including two years as President, and was also a Director of the Law Council of Australia. His tribunal experience includes long service on the former Mental Health Tribunal, as Deputy President of the former Guardianship and Administration Board, and later as a Senior Member of TasCAT, retiring in December 2022. From 2021 to 2024, he served as a Commissioner of the Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania.

Matthew appears as counsel in family law matters and has extensive experience as an Independent Children’s Lawyer and Separate Representative across Tasmania, accepting briefs both locally and interstate.

CPD Points: Any CPD points listed are provided as a guide and registrants should satisfy themselves about the nature and quantity of CPD points they can claim for the activity. Please refer to Practice Guideline no.4 HERE for details.

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