Belfast-based Shean Dickson Merrick Solicitors is expanding into larger premises as it anticipates increased demand amid the “huge impact” of Brexit, the Belfast Telegraph reports.

Bernadette McCloskey, associate solicitor, said the firm’s commercial offering had grown with the economy.

Although Brexit will “have a huge impact on businesses and commercial clients”, she added that “change is exciting and we will be there to provide guidance, support and advice to our commercial clients”.

Ms McCloskey said: “We are really seeing an improvement in confidence and availability of finance allowing many of our hospitality and retail clients to expand and grow.

“A growth area for the firm in recent years is the number of retail clients and Glenn Breen, head of our commercial department, continues to grow that side of the practice.”

The firm acts for a range of commercial clients, including family businesses, property developers, start-ups and SMEs.

It has also been involved in high-profile banking litigation cases on behalf of its commercial clients.

Ms McCloskey said: “Our litigation department, which is led by our senior partner Maura McKay, has made a real impact by being prepared to stand up to the banks and take them on.”