Family law specialists K J Smith Solicitors has opened a new office in Oxfordshire.

The new location in Summertown, Oxford, is the latest phase in the firm's expansion across the Thames Valley and Home Counties.

It will be led by senior chartered legal executive Sofie Corbin, who has over two decades’ experience working in the family law sector. She is a member of K J Smith’s Emerging Leaders Programme – a training, support and mentorship initiative that nurtures rising stars in family law.

Sofie Corbin - K J Smith Solicitors Oxford

Sofie Corbin

Corbin is joined by solicitor Kate Evans and together they are keen to establish relationships with local schools, charities and organisations so they can build on the firm's fundraising and community work. Last year its commitment to local charities, fundraising initiatives and community sport totalled more than £50,000.

Corbin commented: 'Oxford is an incredible city and we’re looking forward to supporting the local community and getting to know other professionals in the area.

'The new office forms part of our ongoing strategy for the future, as we grow organically and continue to provide a professional, empathetic and supportive service to our clients.'

Corbin is also eager to bust some of the myths surrounding separation and is a strong advocate for alternative dispute resolution.

'There’s a huge misconception with divorce that getting lawyers involved means things have to get nasty but that’s not the case.

'I’ve had what could be described as a "successful divorce" and have learnt through my own experience that there’s no "one-size-fits-all" approach; it’s about taking the right advice from the right person at the right time.'

K J Smith Solicitors was founded by Kerry Smith in 2009. Its first office opened in Henley-on-Thames and it remains the firm’s headquarters.