Local Solicitor Johanne Spittle appointed to Ware & Kay’s Board of Directors

Expanding law firm Ware & Kay Solicitors (with offices in York, Wetherby & Malton) is delighted to announce the appointment of well-known leading litigation solicitor, Johanne Spittle as Head of the Litigation Department and to the Board of Directors. This appointment is part of the firm’s ambitious strategy for the future.

In taking up her new Head of Department role, Johanne will provide strategic direction, leadership and support to the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Team. In joining the board, Johanne will provide further impetus to the firm’s senior management team and is expected to drive strong performance and achievement of the firm’s objectives in this field of work as well as its challenging growth plans.

Johanne brings with her a wealth of experience in court work and arbitration. She is widely recognised for her experience in handling complex cases particularly in the resolution of commercial and property related disputes and contentious landlord and tenant law.  Johanne will give advice to a range of property owning clients including landed estates, farmers and agricultural businesses as well as commercial and residential landlords handling possession claims; recovery of rent arrears; breaches of lease covenants; contested business lease renewals; dilapidations; property ownership disputes.  Johanne has a particular interest in helping clients in regards to private and public rights of way including modifications of the Definitive Map and infringement of property rights.  In addition, she also provides advice on partnership and shareholder disputes.

Originally from the West Midlands, Johanne arrives at Ware & Kay with over 33 years’ experience in litigation and dispute resolution. She graduated from the University of Sheffield and studied at Guildford College of Law qualifying as a Solicitor in 1986, beginning her career in Birmingham before moving to York and working for another local firm.

Johanne is well-known in the area and her local knowledge will be beneficial to maintaining and developing her links with local businesses. She is a member of the Property Litigation Association; The Country Landowners & Business Association and is a Fellow of the Agricultural Lawyers Association.

Commenting on her appointment Johanne said: “I am delighted to be joining Ware & Kay at a very exciting time for the firm.  Ware & Kay has a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading law firms in Yorkshire and has seen a sustained growth over the last few years.  There is a tremendous opportunity to grow further and continue to build on the services provided and I am really looking forward to being on the Board of Directors and part of the great team that will take Ware & Kay to the next level.”

Peter Kay, Senior Director at Ware & Kay said: "It is with great pleasure that we welcome Johanne to our Board of Directors.  Johanne’s track record, dedication and contacts in the profession are second to none and we are thrilled to have her on board.  She brings with her an incredibly strong knowledge of dispute resolution and that experience will be vital as we continue our ambitious plans to grow and develop that area"