Ms Barlow has extensive experience specialising in divorce, financial settlements, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, adoption, surrogacy and all family-related matters.

She joined the firm in 2010 and, following her qualification as a solicitor in 2014, secured a permanent place in the firm’s family law team.

Commenting on the appointment, partner Lenore Rice said: “Ciara is formidable in her efforts and commitment to her clients. She has earned great respect internally from her team and I, from her clients, but also from her professional peers.

“Recently our family law team has undergone innovative improvements which help us optimise delivery and streamline legal processes, along with engaging in pivotal business development opportunities. Ciara has actively welcomed and supported these changes, implementing them in the team and has shown strong performance and leadership qualities.

“We’re exceptionally proud of Ciara and all of her achievements. She is a very talented individual. We know she will continue to bring fresh ideas to the team, which make a real impact for our clients and our firm. Ciara’s promotion to director level is well deserved and recognises her significant contributions over recent years.”

Managing partner Gilbert Nesbitt added: “Ciara’s promotion is testament to her unfaltering commitment and dedication in delivering high-quality services and expertise to our valued and diverse client base.

“We will continue to support all in our teams to progress along their career paths. We understand our people are our greatest asset and continually strive to develop a unique culture which promotes responsibility and innovation at all levels.”

Wilson Nesbitt employs more than 75 people across two offices, one in Belfast and one in Bangor.