A LAW firm has welcomed a new solicitor to lead its agricultural team in Malton.

Jacqueline Barr has joined the team at Pearsons & Ward, part of Ware & Kay Solicitors, and is a specialist agricultural solicitor.

Originally from Brough in the East Riding of Yorkshire, Jacqueline has with more than nine years’ experience in agricultural and commercial property law. She studied at the College of Law in York before qualifying as a solicitor in 2011 and started her career in Norfolk.

“I am delighted to join Pearsons & Ward at an exciting time for the firm with a clear role to expand the agricultural work we do across Ryedale and Yorkshire,” she said.

“I have always had a keen interest in the British countryside. As food production is so intrinsically entwined with European law, farmers and landowners need to be guided and advised when dealing with land whether owned or tenanted.”

“In addition, there are always varying and unique implications for each business and family at every phase of their development, whether it be succession planning for the family farm, advice on diversification to generate additional revenue, or tax and estate planning implications.

“My primary focus will be to get to know the farmers, understand the issues they face and build long lasting relationships to provide support for their business and personal needs.

Emma Elwess, director of Pearsons & Ward, said: “Jacqueline is an excellent addition to our team in Malton. She brings with her a wealth of specialist knowledge both on agricultural and commercial property which will enhance the strength and depth of the agricultural advice we offer.

“She has exactly the type of credentials we look for as we plan for the future and further growth.”