A FAMILY solicitor is leading a drive for a more modern approach to her area of law.
Gemma Holmes has joined BHP Law and will head up the firm's family services at its office in Belmont, Durham.
Following the ending of Legal Aid for most family law matters, Gemma is encouraging clients to take up the opportunity for a free 30-minute consultation to discuss managing the costs of divorce, separation and contact disputes, especially for high earners.
"In an ideal world every home would be a happy one, but that's not the reality. People should not be put off from seeking advice if they are at the point of considering divorce because they perceive the cost to be prohibitive," she explained.
"As well as fixed fees and providing an estimate from the outset, we help clients by allowing them to spread their costs through staged payments as well as seeking ways to mitigate fees. It all helps towards modernising the view people may have of family solicitors."
Gemma, who graduated with a first class degree in law from Sheffield Hallam University followed by a distinction in the legal practice course at the University of Northumbria, started her career with another firm in County Durham.
"I received really good training and great experience there because it was a smaller firm. BHP Law has a similar, family feel but is a regional firm with offices across the North East, a bigger structure, forward momentum and brilliant connections with professional partners," said Gemma.
She added: “I’m delighted to be here and looking forward to building our family law services in Durham.”
* Gemma can be contacted on 0191 384 0840.