A SPECIALIST firm has expanded its team.

Silk Family Law, which has offices in Richmond, North Yorkshire, has welcomed solicitor Joanne Hall to its Newcastle base.

Ms Hall qualified as a family lawyer in 2007 and focuses on resolving complex disputes involving children and finance.

A trained collaborative lawyer, she helps separating couples with separation issues without going to court.

She was also a founding member of Young Resolution in the North-East, which support alternatives methods to the traditional court process for resolving family disputes.

She said: “Silk is widely regarded as the top niche family law practice in the region, and everyone in the team is a leader in their particular field.

“I’ve always been interested in family law because of its intrinsic links to values and society, and because of my interest in people.

“I’m also very interested in the way the law works.

“Family law is a constantly changing and challenging area of work, and I’m looking forward to specialising and growing with a firm that has such a strong reputation.”

Silk also has bases in York and London and employs 13 workers in Newcastle.

Ian Kennerley, Silk partner and barrister, added: “We’re very happy to welcome one of the North-East’s leading young lawyers to our team.

“Joanne’s expertise will strengthen an already successful team and help support our growth ambitions for the firm.”