Alumni Spotlight - Kristen Wylie

Career Journey

Kristen Wylie was admitted to practice in 1995 has since developed a distinguished career, marked by her commitment to social justice and access to legal services. She began her journey in private practice, working as an Associate in a general law practice with experience in family law, family violence law, commercial, planning, estate, and industrial law. Her expertise grew in family law working in a boutique family law practice.

From 2001, Kristen took on a leadership role at Tasmania Legal Aid (TLA), spearheading the Family Law Program, which includes a variety of crucial services such as the Family Dispute Resolution Service and Safe at Home Service. She is a passionate advocate for legal reforms, particularly in family law and family violence.

Career Highlights

Her career highlights include receiving the Tasmanian Women Lawyers Achievement Award in 2022, the Law Society of Tasmania President’s Award in February 2023, and induction into the Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women in March 2023. She also developed groundbreaking practice standards for Independent Children’s Lawyers, which were the first of their kind in Australia.

Current Role

Kristen leads Tasmania Legal Aid, overseeing the provision of legal services to vulnerable Tasmanians, managing operations, and advocating for legal and policy reform. She is particularly proud of her involvement in the Just Healthy Families partnership, which integrates health, housing, and legal services to help women and children in Tasmania.

Words of advice for those unsure about commencing the TLPC?

There is no better Legal Prac course on offer. This course absolutely sets you up for practice in every respect. Not only do you get hands on experience in many areas of law – you have access to the best in our profession. So many of our judges and talented lawyers freely give their time – as they believe in this course and in growing Tasmanian talent. There are not many legal practice courses that see you leave with relationships with mentors, including the judiciary. It really sets you up to succeed.

What would you tell your 1995 self?

Cast a wide net in terms of gaining legal experience. There’s plenty of time to specialise later. Also, understanding commercial and tax law is an invaluable advantage in litigation, so learn those areas. And make sure you know your evidence acts by heart!

Is there anything you would do differently?

I wish I had taken a gap year. I was so focused on getting my career started that I missed the opportunity to take some time off before diving in. It’s a chance that slips by quickly.