AN established agricultural solicitors is opening up a new office within the rural auction and agricultural centre at J36.

JWK Solicitors' expansion follows the bolstering of their agricultural team with the addition of celebrated barrister Serena Gowling and her team, who joined the company from Kendal's Rural Law Practice in March.

The opening of the Kendal office will mean the company has offices open in four locations; the company now employs over 70 staff in offices in Morecambe, Lancaster and Glasgow.

JWK Director Tony Collinson said: "Over my many years in this sector, my hands on understanding of the grass roots of agriculture that has been of great benefit to clients. Now with Serena joining the team we are able to deal with an impressive range of matters for the farming community whether tenants, landowners or agri-businesses. Serena, a farmer’s daughter, is widely recognised for her down to earth approach and ability to grasp even the most complex of cases and she has extensive court experience.

"We are finding a growing demand for our services, in areas such as partnership dissolutions, professional negligence claims, and contentious probate cases where our knowledge of agriculture and rural issues is invaluable."

Ms Gowling said: "JWK has recognised the growing need for a service devoted to the diverse and evolving agricultural industry, with affordable access to a specialist solicitor and barrister team. The opening of this new office demonstrates just how serious JWK is about bringing its extensive services to the farming community.

"What sets us apart is that without exception our legal team has significant experience of practical farming and understands the farming industry.

"Nothing annoys clients more than having to explain about the practicalities of farming before even getting to their legal problems. It adds a layer of completely, unnecessary additional costs, and delays the resolution of their issues.

“Despite the recent challenges, agriculture remains a vital part of the UK’s economy and our dedicated team brings together many years of experience in providing valuable down to earth solutions to the problems the rural community face.”

JWK will be officially launching the Kendal office on 28th April, at the Grass Day Sale.