As part of DRS 50, we are recognising panel members whose expertise and judgement support effective dispute resolution across the profession. In this spotlight, we speak with Julie Liddle, a Rural Chartered Surveyor and Arbitrator, about her work across rural practice and ADR, her pathway into arbitration, and her experience as a longstanding panel member.
Can you tell us a bit about your role and what you do day-to-day?
As a Rural Chartered Surveyor my work can be very varied (landlord & Tenant, planning and development, valuations, and Option Agreements primarily) but I’ve always enjoyed involvement in dispute resolution. This began as planning appeals, boundary disputes, and taking instruction to act as an independent valuer.
What first drew you to dispute resolution or your area of expertise?
After completing my degree at Harper Adams I realised that I enjoyed dealing with the legal side of matters and one way to develop this was to look at becoming involved in dispute resolution (either that or train as a solicitor). In 2005 I undertook a Masters law degree to expand my interest in law. As I said previously, I have always enjoyed dispute resolution, acting for a party or as a single joint expert. In 2017 I undertook the RICS Diploma in Arbitration, applied to join the national panel, and it’s grown ever since.
How has your role or the industry changed over the years?
The industry is ever changing with new legislation and changes in government. However, in terms of disputes, probably the one matter that changed dispute work was parties becoming much more litigious, more prepared to have an argument. The courts through the Woolfe Reforms mean the courts now ask everyone to undertake a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) before making an application to be heard in court. The other comment I would make is that AHA is now a relative rarity and FBTs are rarely set up correctly.
What do you enjoy most about working with DRS?
I enjoy working with Mushtaq, he’s very good and always approachable. In terms of the bigger picture, I enjoy being a decision maker. Helping people to reach an agreement in not easy, some cases are extremely complicated, but it provides an answer. The parties get an answer as reasoned and comprehensive as I can provide, which means they can move on. Everyone is different and challenging.
Can you share a memorable case, course, or experience that stands out?
Interesting question. The cases are so varied. I think I would say an arbitration case which could be being simply rent, or more complicated matters such as one of the seven deadly sins. On reflection I think what makes the work interesting is knowing your subject matter, remaining within what the parties provide in terms of submissions, and then knowing when to proceed with your own judgement, or to take legal advice, is always an interesting consideration.
The largest case I have undertaken had Counsel on both sides, with five representatives for the landlord and four for the tenant. There was so much to do given it lasted four days, the parties agreed I could utilise a stenographer, and additional witnesses came in virtually. In terms of scale, the mental dexterity to manage it all was significant.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
In terms of being a Rural Surveyor, immerse yourself in the industry. In terms of specialising on one area of work, target your experience with care. As I have already mentioned I started in dispute resolution by making the decision to attend planning appeals, court, and arbitration hearings, mostly in my own time. It might be that you are not acting but you will get familiar with the process and terminology. Opportunities appear in the areas you focus. Other than this, read, read, and read your topic. Remember that is Arbitration you choose between the arguments, you do not add from your expertise.
What keeps you motivated and inspired professionally?
I guess the answer to that would be enjoying what I do. The longer I work in ADR, the more appointments I receive. Most appointments come through DRS, but a number are private, which is quite pleasing.
How does DRS support you in delivering value to clients and the profession?
It is Mushtaq I deal with at DRS, I assume all dispute resolvers will, and he’s an absolute star. He is always there and will call back – a rare commodity these days when everyone defaults to emails. Appointments are clear and concise so I’m very happy with the support given. For me ADR has become my job it is something that is extremely specialist and in my case, I could make it full time.
And finally, is there something personal, such as a hobby or interest that you’d be happy to share to make your profile more personable?
What a question! It means I will have to admit to being a lifelong football fan of Sunderland AFC. My second home.