A HAMPSHIRE law firm has become the first in the region to offer a range of same-sex legal services.

Ellis Jones Solicitors in Ringwood chose National Coming Out Day - Wednesday October 11 – to launch the new venture.

Lawyers will offer help in many aspects of the law that directly relate to the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community.

They include family issues, such as gay marriage and divorce, finances, children and parenting issues, financial support for children and mediation.

The same-sex legal service will also assist members of the LGBT community with discrimination issues and employment law advice.

The specialist Ellis Jones’ team includes Deborah Leask, partner and joint head of family; Lauren Day, partner and head of dispute resolution and senior associates Katie Taft and Kate Brooks.

Lauren, 35, who came out to her friends at the age of 17 and married photographer Rebecca in July this year, said: “Our new same-sex legal service will provide a support network for an under-represented community.

“We regard this as a growth area with demand for same-sex legal advice likely to increase in the future.”

Nigel Smith, Ellis Jones’ Managing Partner, added: “As a progressive, forward-looking firm, we believe our services should mirror changes in society as well as the law.

"Our team are all specialists in their respective fields and have been chosen for their expertise in dealing with aspects of law directly relating to the LGBT community."