A solicitor has been promoted less than 12 months after returning to the law firm where she trained.

Hexham-based Nicholson Portnell Solicitors has appointed Laura Murphy to the role of senior associate solicitor.

Ms Murphy initially joined the firm in 2008 as a trainee and worked there for eight years, qualifying as a solicitor in 2010.

She returned last December after time away working for a Newcastle city centre law firm and starting a family.

Nicholson Portnell was acquired in April by Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, a firm headquartered in Cumbria, opening up new career opportunities for the Hexham-based team.

Ms Murphy said: "I’m really pleased to become a senior associate solicitor, and I’m delighted to be back working with familiar faces at Nicholson Portnell.

"I’m excited to continue developing my role and working as part of the team as we expand further and develop the level of legal services we provide.

"Cartmell Shepherd has introduced a fluid, transparent career progression structure, and it’s great to be working within a larger company with increased access to different legal expertise."

Ms Murphy specialises in private client legal cases, in the administration of complex and high-value estates in particular.

She is a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, a global professional body dedicated to assisting families with future planning.

Ms Murphy said: "The firm is very supportive of people’s personal circumstances and being able to fulfil my working week around a young family means I can enjoy a great work-life balance, and I’m motivated to develop my career as far as possible."

Laura's appointment coincides with Sarah Griffiths' promotion to associate solicitor at Cartmell Shepherd’s Penrith office.