DARLINGTON, U.K. -- Adam Wood, 33, joins Latimer Hinks as a solicitor specialising in commercial, agricultural and residential property law within the Darlington-based firm.

Significantly, Adam is one of only two solicitors in Darlington who also practice as a notary public and one of merely 875 in England and Wales.

Being a notary public means that Adam can authenticate and certify signatures and documents for use anywhere in the world. This includes the witnessing of powers of attorney for use abroad and authenticating company documents and verifying the status of companies.

Born in the North East and currently living in the Wear Valley area, Adam read marine biology and obtained a masters degree in chemical engineering at Newcastle University before completing his law conversion course at Northumbria University and then studying to become a notary public at Cambridge University

After graduating in 2005, Adam went straight onto a two-year training contract with a regional law firm. Adam spent a further six years with this firm in its commercial property team at their Darlington office, before taking up his appointment with Latimer Hinks.

Speaking of his appointment, Adam said: "I am delighted to have joined such a client-focused firm . I work hard for my clients and my approach fits perfectly with Latimer Hinks’ values and its established reputation of providing excellent quality of service.”

"The move to Latimer Hinks was the obvious choice for me and I am looking forward to playing my part in the future direction of the firm.”

Tim Haggie, head of commercial property at Latimer Hinks, said: "We are very pleased to be adding Adam to our team and I’m sure this appointment will further strengthen our commercial property experience.”

"In his relatively short law career, Adam has gained a great deal of experience and knowledge, and he will be an asset to the firm and our clients.”