Zahra Hanif (pictured above) has been appointed to a North West law firm to ‘strengthen the family law services’ provided to clients at its Clitheroe office.

Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors has appointed solicitor Zahra following her roles at two Lancashire-based law firms.

Zahra most recently spent three years at Laker Legal Solicitors in Lancaster, where she qualified as a family law solicitor. She will support clients across a range of legal issues including the financial aspects of divorce, as well as private children law.

Zahra said: “I grew up in Great Harwood and still live in East Lancashire. Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall 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.”

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.

Zahra studied Law with Criminology at Lancaster University and completed her Legal Practice Course 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.

David Connor, director, Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors, 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.”

Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors employ over 110 staff from offices in Accrington, Bacup, Bury, Blackburn, Clitheroe, Haslingden, Great Harwood, Rawtenstall and Salford.