The Dorset Law Society has a new president.

Martin Varley, a corporate law partner at Humphries Kirk, was elected to the role.

With more than 30 years’ experience in corporate and commercial work, Mr Varley has particular expertise in corporate and finance law and often works with cases involving cross-border complexity. Martin is also a member of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.

Mr Varley takes over from Katharine Jones, also partner at Humphries Kirk, who was first elected as president 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.”

The Dorset Law Society is one of the oldest of its kind in existence, representing all the providers of legal services in Dorset.