After an extraordinary 40-year career in the legal profession, Paul Watkins, former Principal at MST Lawyers, is preparing to retire. As a highly respected member of the Wills and Estates team, Paul leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his clients. We sat down with Paul to reflect on his journey and capture his thoughts as he transitions into retirement.
Reflections on a Career in Law
Reflecting on his career, Paul describes his journey as both fulfilling and fast-paced. “It does feel a bit weird to retire,” he shares. “I’m certainly ready, but there’s always that feeling of leaving some big cases unfinished. However, I trust that the firm is well-equipped to take them forward.” Paul’s ability to adapt and his love for problem-solving have been cornerstones of his career. “What I’ve enjoyed most is sorting things out for clients and seeing their relief when matters are resolved,” he says.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to guide someone through a challenging process and know you’ve made a difference.”
Adapting to Change
Over the years, the legal profession has undergone significant transformations, particularly with the rise of technology. “When I started, we didn’t even have the internet or mobile phones,” Paul recalls. “Now, clients expect a quick response, sometimes emailing contracts at 5 PM on a Friday and expecting immediate feedback. The pace and accessibility have changed everything.” Despite these shifts, Paul found the essence of his work—helping clients—has remained constant. “While the tools and expectations have evolved, the core of what we do is still about supporting people through major life events.”
A Passion for Wills and Estates
Paul didn’t initially set out to specialise in Wills and Estates, but fate intervened when he joined MST Lawyers in 1996. “I volunteered to take over the practice when the previous lawyer went on maternity leave. I had only done a couple of wills before, so I decided to learn everything I could about it,” he shares. “The more I learned, the more I realised it was the perfect fit for me.”
This area of law provided Paul with the opportunity to engage with clients on a deeply personal level. “I loved dealing with people, hearing their stories, and helping them during difficult times. It’s an area of law where empathy and understanding really matter.”
Advice for Young Lawyers
For up-and-coming lawyers, Paul emphasised the importance of client relationships. “It’s not just about doing the work; it’s about connecting with people,” he advises. Reflecting on his career, Paul acknowledges that mistakes are inevitable but emphasised the importance of learning from them. “As a lawyer, it’s guaranteed you will make mistakes. What matters is that you learn and always try to do the best for your client.” Paul encourages aspiring lawyers to embrace opportunities.
“Don’t turn down opportunities—they may never come again. Find a balance, enjoy what you’re doing, and take the time to connect with clients. Building trust and relationships is as important as knowing the law.”
Milestones and Lessons Learned
Among his many career achievements, Paul recounts a particularly challenging international estate case involving millions of dollars in assets across several countries. “It ran for over seven years and required immense coordination. It was a tough case, but I’m proud of how we managed it.”
As Paul steps into retirement, he is looking forward to a new chapter filled with fishing, tennis, and learning new things. “I’m also excited about volunteering and giving back to the community. But mostly, I’m looking forward to not working,” he says with a laugh.
Looking back, Paul attributes much of his satisfaction to the people he’s worked with at MST Lawyers.
“What makes a legal firm are its people. I’ve always enjoyed working with my colleagues and the clients (or most of them) who’ve come through our doors,” he says. “I’m proud to have been part of a firm that looks after its people and their families.”
As Paul transitions into retirement, MST Lawyers celebrates his legacy and the incredible contributions he has made to the firm and its clients.
We wish him all the best as he embarks on this exciting new journey.
