DORSET Law Society has elected a new president.

Martin Varley, corporate law partner at Humphries Kirk in Poole, has more than 30 years’ experience in corporate and commercial work.

He takes over from Katharine Jones, also a partner at Humphries Kirk, first elected in 2015.

He said: “I am honoured with my new role as president of the Dorset Law Society; it’s a real privilege to be given this responsibility.

“The Dorset Law Society seeks to maintain the professionalism of legal services providers and assist professional colleagues in ensuring they are providing the highest levels of legal service. Solicitors go through rigorous training and continue their education throughout their career.

“Members of the profession are insured and the Law Society operates both an ombudsman and a compensation scheme. This contrasts starkly with some of the claims management companies that have sprung up, which can often give the impression they provide a legal service. Very often they use cynical tactics, such as cold calling. My advice is to hang up, and if you have a claim, see a solicitor.”

Mr Varley has particular expertise and finance law and often works with cases involving cross-border complexity. He is a chartered member of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.