TWO solicitors from a south coast legal firm have gained top-level accreditation from a national family justice organisation.

Georgina Emerson and Lauren Harley of Ellis Jones Solicitors have both achieved specialist accreditation status from Resolution.

They passed a rigorous assignment covering all aspects of family law, sat exams for their individual specialisms, and prepared an extensive portfolio of work to be assessed against strict skills and Resolution's code of practice.

Despite being among the 1,300 accredited specialists nationwide, they have reached this esteemed status early in their careers.

Ms Emerson acquired her legal qualification in 2021.

She gained specialist certification in the subjects of international child abduction and complex matrimonial finances.

She volunteers her time as part of the Child Abduction Lawyers Association (CALA) Duty Advocate Scheme, offering representation to clients in the Royal Courts of Justice.

Ms Emerson said: "I am proud of Lauren and I for passing the accreditation exams.

"It was a challenging and intense set of exams to sit but definitely worth it to achieve the accreditation status and promote the various specialisms that we as part of Ellis Jones’ Family Team can offer."

Ms Harley joined the Ellis Jones Family Team in 2017.

She acquired Resolution accreditation in complex matrimonial finances and private child law matters.

A founding member of Dorset YRes since October 2019, she participates in the Dorset Resolution Committee and represents Dorset at regional committee meetings.

Ms Harley said: "We’re thrilled to have achieved accredited status.

"It further strengthens Ellis Jones’ family law credentials and our department’s work in seeking to find the best outcomes for families and individuals in cases of divorce, separation and family breakdown."

In July of this year, Ellis Jones promoted Ms Emerson and Ms Harley to senior associate solicitors.

Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ managing partner, said: "Congratulations to both Lauren and Georgina on passing their Resolution specialist accreditation exams.

"Achieving accredited status is a huge vote of confidence in Lauren and Georgina as it demonstrates independent national recognition of their strengths and expertise in family law."

Ellis Jones has seven offices across the south in Bournemouth, Poole, Ringwood, Swanage, Broadstone and Wimborne.