In her new role as a Master in the Queen’s Bench Division of the High Court she will oversee procedural aspects of civil claims at first instance in the High Court from issue through to trial, also conducting shorter trials on occasion.
In her new judicial role she will take the title of Master Stevens, having become only the third solicitor since the High Court of Justice was established in 1875 to be appointed as a Master – and only the 3rd ever woman appointed to the role.
EWI Chief Executive, Simon Berney-Edwards, said "We are absolutely delighted for Amanda. This is a role she has worked towards for some time so it is wonderful to see her secure this appointment. We are looking forward to welcoming her back to a future event to talk about her role and insights she can provide to our experts."
Masters have the jurisdiction of a High Court judge, subject to certain restrictions set out in procedural rules and guidelines. The work of the Queen’s Bench Division concerns personal injury, negligence, breach of statutory duty, media claims including defamation, breach of contract, breaches of the Human Rights Act and non-payment of a debt.
The work of a Master includes costs budgeting, deciding complex interlocutory issues of jurisdiction, forum, service, limitation, summary disposal, evidence and enforcement as well as foreign process as delegated by the Senior Master. They may also undertake trials, usually those lasting up to three days, including trials of preliminary issues on liability or limitation, assessments of damages and shorter and less complex trials on all issues.