Lorna Bastian

I joined Aquabridge in 2018 to head up the Private Client department, which was the firm’s newest practice area at the time. I was responsible for establishing and developing the department, shaping its direction and building a trusted service offering for clients during a key growth phase for the firm.

While deep technical knowledge is always a requirement to practise, I believe that success in private client work really comes from an ability to develop a rapport. It’s at least as much about personality as professionalism. You need the ability to deliver clear, practical advice with the tact and care clients expect. That counts for a lot, especially when clients are dealing with unfamiliar issues at difficult times.

In my side of the practice, I take care of estate planning, will drafting, trusts and advice on lasting powers of attorney. For executors, I handle administration of estates and probate to ensure that everything is dealt with effectively.

Private client work is primarily people-orientated and focused on problem solving, thus with a genuine interest in people and supporting people in difficult times, it is the client discussions I enjoy the most!

Interests: I enjoy spending time with friends and family, cheering on my children from the sidelines at various sporting fixtures, reading, and the gym.

Fun Fact: Well… I went solo backpacking after qualification, taking in Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

When I Was Young: I wanted to be a lawyer, and I am one!

Drink of the Day: Coffee before 11am and then tea all day!