LAW firm Thomas Horton Solicitors, which has four offices across Worcestershire, has appointed Stephen Outhwaite as head of matrimonial services.

After qualifying, Mr Outhwaite spent time working in the American legal system before returning to England, where he has spent the last ten years in practices across the West Midlands, focusing on family and criminal disciplines. He is a panel member of the Law Society accreditation scheme for specialists in family law and also a member of the Association of Lawyers for Children.

Richard Hull, managing partner of Thomas Horton, said: “It is great to have Stephen on board and he brings valuable experience to the firm. He is extremely knowledgeable and has shown a real passion for his specialism, supported by a far reaching reputation for his skills as an advocate. We are very fortunate that he chosen to join us and he is already proving his value to the clients of Thomas Horton.”

Mr Outhwaite added: "This is a fantastic opportunity and I’m delighted to be joining Thomas Horton at such an exciting time. The firm are specialists in helping families to resolve problems. This is an area I am passionate about. It is varied and complex and every case is different.”

Established 125 years ago, Thomas Horton operates from offices in Bromsgrove, Worcester, Barnt Green and Redditch.