Pearsons & Ward have announced their intention to expand their Family Department. Following the merger with Ware & Kay Solicitors last year, Family Solicitor Robert Bellhouse, who has been looking after clients in the York and Wetherby area is now extending his role to cover Ryedale and East Yorkshire. Robert has been in the legal profession for over 25 years specialising in Divorce, Financial Matters and Child Law. He is an Accredited Specialist Member of Resolution, an Experienced Collaborative Family Lawyer and a Trained Mediator. Rachel Raper who joined Pearsons & Ward in 2009 also specialises in Family Law and will work alongside Robert in the Family and Litigation Department. Rachel is a Member of Resolution and is committed to complying with the Resolution Code of Conduct. She works full time at the Malton Office and will be happy to take enquiries. Robert said “Family matters are often complex and I always aim to work with my clients to achieve the best outcome during what can be a stressful time. When relationships breakdown it is often hard for separating couples to talk to each other and my strength is guiding them through this most difficult period. Our aim is to help clients emerge from the turmoil of relationship breakdown with dignity and fairness. As a trained Mediator I can also offer an alternative way of resolving issues when a couple decide to either divorce or separate or where there are issues surrounding the arrangements for the children.” He added “Over the last few years I have acted successfully for a broad range of clients from many backgrounds and also had considerable experience in difficult high value cases including those involving business assets. In today’s world with family relationships becoming ever more complex it is important that clients receive good quality advice from a dedicated Practitioner. I am pleased to be able to offer that service as part of the Pearsons & Ward Team. I am really looking forward to the challenge and I am excited to be extending my role looking after new clients.” Emma Elwess Director of Pearsons & Ward said “This decision comes at an important time in the Firm’s development and is another key part of building a strong Family Law Team as the Firm moves into its next phase of growth. Robert brings with him many years of experience in Family Law matters. He is approachable, professional and understands the importance of delivering a high level of service. Here at Pearsons & Ward we are committed to looking after both established and new clients. I am confident that Robert’s addition to the department will only enhance the Firm’s profile. Robert and Rachel will be responsible for advising on all aspects of Divorce, Separation and Collaborative Law in the Family, Children and Mediation Department.” The team at Pearsons & Ward focuses on being approachable and prides itself on building lasting relationships with clients. With its commitment to quality and client care the firm combines a traditional solicitor/client relationship with access to high quality specialist advice. For advice or to make an appointment please call Robert or Rachel on 01653 692247 or 01904 716062. If you prefer you can email either Robert or Rachel confidentially on Robert.Bellhouse@warekay.co.uk or Rachel.Raper@pearslaw.co.uk. PLEASE QUOTE PW02 TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR FREE HALF HOUR APPOINTMENT