A Shropshire law firm has appointed a newly-qualified lawyer to its family law team who has a particular interest in legal issues concerning farming families.

Lizzie Cross completed her training contract with Lanyon Bowdler after joining the firm in January 2021 and gaining extensive experience as a legal assistant in the firm’s top-rated family department.

Lanyon Bowdler’s family team is top-ranked by Chambers UK and accredited by the Law Society for family law – making them one of the leading teams in the Midlands. Lizzie qualified as a solicitor at the beginning of November and will split her working time between the firm’s offices in Shrewsbury, Hereford and Ludlow.

Lizzie said: “Lanyon Bowdler is highly regarded as a leading law firm and its family law team is recognised as one of the best there is, so I am thrilled to be part of it. 

“I have been with the firm since January 2021, and worked in the family department as a legal assistant where I gained a lot of invaluable experience.

“During my training contract I completed time in various seats which has helped me on my career path.

“I am from a farming background and have a keen interest in farming related divorces and will look to grow my expertise in this area. I enjoy all areas of family work and in particular matters involving the Children Act.”

Away from work, Lizzie enjoys spending time with her family and friends and, coming from a farming background, she can often be found spending weekends helping with  the animals, or in the garden turning her hand to growing vegetables.

Sue Hodgson, partner and head of family law at Lanyon Bowdler, said: “We are delighted to welcome Lizzie as a new addition to our family law team – although we obviously know her really well from her time with us during her training contract.

“She has always been conscientious and enthusiastic with a passion for supporting clients, ensuring that we are always able to do our very best for them.

“We pride ourselves on handling cases with sensitivity and understanding and never lose sight of the fact that the client is always our top priority. Lizzie will be a valuable addition to the team.”