Hull and East Yorkshire firm Williamsons Solicitors has introduced a dedicated family law service to its Beverley branch with the appointment of specialist legal executive Karen Marshall.

Mrs Marshall joins eight solicitors in Williamsons' family department who are based at Hull, Bridlington and Driffield.

Sarah Clubley, Williamsons' director and head of family, said that the increase in enquiries and volume of work at Beverley, since the branch opened two years ago, had necessitated a full-time position.

"This is a significant appointment, enabling us to offer a wide range of family service to the town.

"We have known Karen for many years. She is friendly and approachable and keen to help people find answers to some of the most difficult problems they are likely to face."

Mrs Marshall has had 17 years' experience since starting her training through the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and has built her knowledge of family law, from childcare to financial settlements, with regional law firms.

For the four years before joining Williamsons she worked as a professional McKenzie Friend, providing support and advice for family court litigants who were unable to afford representation.

"They included vulnerable people in need of assistance," she said. "Courts can be intimidating places, and when cases go to court everyone should be entitled to some level of support with the legal process."

Mrs Marshall added: "I started my career undertaking Crown Court work, but quickly made the switch to family law, which has been good for me. Every case is different, every family is different and it's always interesting and rewarding to help people in need."

Before becoming a professional McKenzie Friend she spent 12 years with Goole practice Heptonstalls, which continues to refer family cases to her.