WHN strengthens family law team in Clitheroe

Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors (WHN) has appointed qualified solicitor Zahra Hanif to its family law team.

She joins WHN having previously worked at two Lancashire-based law firms, most recently spending three years at Laker Legal Solicitors in Lancaster, where she qualified as a family law solicitor.

Based at the firm's Clitheroe office, Zahra will support clients across a range of legal issues including the financial aspects of divorce, as well as private children law.

She has particular expertise providing legal advice to protect vulnerable people and children, including preparing non-molestation orders and occupation orders as well as court orders made under Section 8 of the Children Act 1989.

Zahra will also advise clients in relation to cohabitee matters, including claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996, as well as cohabitation and separation agreements.

David Connor, director, WHN said: “Over the past year, we have seen a real growth in demand for our family law services in the Ribble Valley and Zahra’s appointment represents and expansion of our team to support that.

“Zahra brings a deep understanding of the complexities divorce and children’s law, but also huge empathy for the people she helps. She will be a great asset to the team.”

Zahra studied Law with Criminology at Lancaster University and completed her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at University of Law, Manchester. She enjoys taking part in charitable work and has organised initiatives throughout her career to raise funds for various charities that focus on protecting and caring for vulnerable children.

Zahra said: “I grew up in Great Harwood and still live in East Lancashire. WHN has a strong reputation in the area for its quality service and putting the client experience at the heart of everything it does.

“The team is hugely knowledgeable in advising individuals and families on a wide range of legal issues so I’m looking forward to working with them and using my own experience to support clients through the issues they face.”

WHN employs over 110 staff from offices in Accrington, Bacup, Bury, Blackburn, Clitheroe, Haslingden, Great Harwood, Rawtenstall and Salford.