A LAW firm with an office in Malton has announced its latest appointment.

Ware & Kay Solicitors has announced Johanne Spittle as their new head of litigation.

In her new role, Johanne will provide strategic direction, leadership and support to the litigation and dispute resolution team, and in joining the board, is expected to drive strong performance and achievement of the firm’s objectives in this field.

Johanne has experience in court work and arbitration, and is recognised for her experience in handling complex cases, particularly in commercial and property related disputes, and contentious landlord and tenant law.

She will give advice to property owning clients, including landed estates, farmers and agricultural businesses around North Yorkshire, as well as commercial and residential landlords handling possession claims. She will also advise them on recovery of rent arrears, breaches of lease covenants, contested business lease renewals, dilapidations, and property ownership disputes.

Johanne said: “I am delighted to be joining Ware & Kay at a very exciting time for the firm.

“Ware & Kay has a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading law firms in Yorkshire and has seen a sustained growth over the last few years. There is a tremendous opportunity to grow further and continue to build on the services provided and I am really looking forward to being on the Board of Directors and part of the great team that will take Ware & Kay to the next level.”

Peter Kay, senior director at Ware & Kay, said: “Johanne’s track record, dedication and contacts in the profession are second to none and we are thrilled to have her on board.

“She brings with her an incredibly strong knowledge of dispute resolution and that experience will be vital as we continue our ambitious plans to grow and develop that area of work and the firm as a whole.”

Johanne has a particular interest in helping clients in regards to private and public rights of way including modifications of the Definitive Map and infringement of property rights. In addition, she also provides advice on partnership and shareholder disputes.

Johanne arrives at Ware & Kay with more than 33 years’ experience in litigation and dispute resolution. She graduated from the University of Sheffield and studied at Guildford College of Law, qualifying as a solicitor in 1986.