You never know who will go first. Being able to go first gives you a head start in php and in normal combat. There should be a new stat called acceleration, head start, first caster or some other name. Whichever creature or opponent has a higher number head start goes first. For duels with three or more characters on a battlefield, whichever sides combined head start points is higher goes first. This would be a new stat. Do you like the idea? yes or no.
Yes! I hate that mobs often get to go first despite being two to your one and having higher stats than you. Feels good to beat them but still... This would be especially helpful for those of us who like to solo.
It could be good idea for pvp only because in pve the bosses always cheats. So the will start first no matter what. For pvp the gear probably will benefit some schools while others not. I think that the fire school and storm will get better chance to start first since they the attackers while ice and life last. For conclusion I think that the idea is bad. The chances to start first should remain random for fairness of the fight.