A law firm which launched one of the region’s first same-sex legal services has celebrated LGBT+ History Month.
Ellis Jones Solicitors champions the campaign – held every February – as part of its ongoing support for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT+) community.
The firm, which has six offices across the south coast in Bournemouth, Canford Cliffs (Poole), Christchurch, Ringwood, Swanage and Wimborne as well as London, says awareness is growing – especially with TV presenter Phillip Schofield coming out during the month.
Partner Lauren Day, who was named as a leading individual in this year’s Legal 500 guide, said: “Great progress has been made but there is still a long way to go.
“The understanding for Phillip Schofield was encouraging but there is still discrimination and under-representation in everyday life.
“We are proud to support the LGBT+ community in History Month and all the year round including expert legal advice on our website, sponsorship of Pride events over recent years, recognition of diversity internally and our same sex legal services.”
Lauren, who came out to her friends at the age of 17 and is married to photographer Rebecca, is Head of Dispute Resolution at 160-strong Ellis Jones.
She is part of the specialist LGBT+ team, which also includes Deborah Leask, Partner and Joint Head of Family; and Partners Katie Taft and Kate Brooks.
As part of Ellis Jones’ activities for LGBT+ History Month, Lauren gave a presentation to law students at Bournemouth University.
Ellis Jones launched its same-sex legal service in 2017 to help in many aspects of the law that directly relate to the LGBT+ community.
Many cases dealt with by the LGBT+ team cover family issues, such as gay marriage and divorce, finances, children, parenting and fertility, financial support for children and mediation.
The service also assists members of the LGBT+ community with discrimination issues and employment law advice.
Nigel Smith, Managing Partner, said: “Our specialist LGBT+ solicitors have a wealth of experience and understanding in the legal issues which affect the LGBT+ community.
“We are a progressive law firm which recognises diversity internally and within our client base. I am delighted that we are playing our part in supporting the LGBT+ community.”
Ellis Jones was listed as one of the country’s top 200 law firms in The Times newspaper’s ‘Best Law Firms 2020’ guide recently with individual recognition for Lauren, Deborah and Kate.
PICTURE: WEDDING: Partner Lauren Day, left, with wife Rebecca on their wedding day