Pictured above: Gemma Garfoot

Gainsborough-based Burton & Dyson Solicitors has welcomed a new family lawyer.

Gemma Garfoot, who joins the firm as a senior family solicitor, is highly experienced in all aspects of family work, including divorce, separation, cohabitation and civil partnership dissolutions.

She also advises on all aspects of private and public law children matters, particularly in relation to residence, contact and care proceedings, and routinely represents clients in Family Court proceedings as well as at the County Court.

Gemma, who originally hails from Norfolk, graduated from Hull University with an honours degree in law in 2000 before undertaking a legal practice course in York from 2000 to 2001, gaining a distinction.

In 2001, she joined Wilkin Chapman, a large legal firm with offices across Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire, where she qualified in 2003. She has specialised in family law since then.

Commenting on her new role at Burton & Dyson, Gemma said: "I liked the idea of working for a smaller, more personal firm where I would have the opportunity to expand my career in family law.

"I already feel very settled in my new role and am enjoying the variety of work it brings."

Senior partner Philip Westcott said: "I am delighted to welcome Gemma to Burton & Dyson and am confident that with her experience and enthusiasm, she will prove to be a real asset to the firm."

In addition to her advocacy work, Gemma is looking forward to dealing with the challenges presented by the expected withdrawal of legal aid funding and promoting Burton & Dyson's mediation services as an alternative to court action.

In her spare time, Gemma enjoys playing hockey for Brigg Ladies 1st XI, as well as playing netball in the Humberside league. She is also a keen hill walker, with the Lake District being a favourite location.

For further information on any of Burton & Dyson's services, please contact 01427 610761, or visit www.burtondyson.com. Follow Burton & Dyson on Twitter at www.twitter.com/burton_dyson.