Burnetts Solicitors LLP has announced a new Head for its Family Team.

The North of England firm has made Mark Ward its new family unit head, marking the beginning of a fresh leadership chapter.

Burnetts has branches in Carlisle, Cockermouth and Newcastle.

Mark was announced as Salaried Partner and Head of Family.

Mark, who started his Burnetts journey in April, boasts a career of over two decades specialising in family law.

Formerly of Cartwright King, his expertise lies in handling financial complications following separations for both married and unmarried couples, and issues regarding children.

Mark fills the shoes of Simon Mortimer, who had served Burnetts faithfully since 1988.

His retirement marked the end of a remarkable 35 years with the firm.

Emma Armstrong, another member of the Family Team, will make a return in early November following maternity leave.

She is being promoted from Associate to Senior Associate.

Existing team members, including Senior Associate Liz Wilson and Vikki Porthouse, Senior Associate Chartered Legal Executive, continue to provide guidance on divorce, matrimonial finances, pre and post-nuptial agreements, and cases involving children.

Nick Gutteridge, Managing Partner of Burnetts, said: “This is a new era for our Family team, and we’re delighted to welcome Mark, who brings with him many years of valuable experience, as Head and Salaried Partner.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Simon sincerely for his loyal service to Burnetts. He’s been a fundamental part of our team for a very long time, and we will miss him.

"I’d also like to congratulate Emma on her promotion, which is hugely deserved. Our clients remain in excellent hands.”

Mark Ward, new Head of Family, said: “I am delighted to have joined such a respected firm and to have been offered this opportunity within a well-regarded and highly-rated Family team”

To find out more about the firm, visit: www.burnetts.co.uk