Coodes Solicitors is expanding to meet demand from clients needing support with family issues including mental health and domestic abuse.

The South West law firm has appointed Machaela O’Brien to join its specialist Family team, which supports people who are facing some of life’s biggest challenges including divorce, children law and care proceedings.

Machaela is based in Coodes’ Liskeard and Truro offices and joins from the Family Law team of Stephens Scown Solicitors in St Austell.

Partner and Head of the Family Team Elise Alma said: “Coodes has a growing reputation for providing specialist legal advice to people who are dealing with a relationship breakdown, domestic abuse or mental health issues. In recent months, this area of our work has increased considerably so we needed to expand our team to continue to meet demand from clients.

“A number of our lawyers have come across Machaela and spotted her potential. In particular, they recognised her professionalism and supportive manner with clients. We are delighted to welcome Machaela as the latest member of our Family Team.”

Machaela, who grew up and lives near Liskeard said: “I’ve always lived in Cornwall, so have watched Coodes go from strength to strength. Seeing them progressing so well, I have always kept an eye on them as somewhere I may want to work and this is the perfect time for me to join and progress my career. Coodes is also very supportive of lawyers who, like me, are undertaking their legal training with CILEx rather than following a more traditional route into law.

“I work in a very sensitive area of law, which can be very emotional. Because of that, it is extremely rewarding to get a good result for a client and help them move forward.”