New partner Chris Milligan has joined the commercial real estate team as a partner, while Andrew Kirke has been promoted to partner seven years after joining the firm. Mr Milligan, an energy specialist, will work alongside Mr Kirke on energy and infrastructure projects in Northern Ireland and abroad.

Paul O’Brien has been appointed as a partner in the corporate team. He works on a wide range of corporate law matters, including sales and acquisitions of companies and corporate restructurings. He has a particular expertise in private equity and venture capital investments and regularly acts for investee companies and investors, both institutional and private.

Meanwhile, Fiona Kirkpatrick has joined the firm as a private client director, bringing extensive experience in advising on a wide range of private client matters such as estate planning, establishing trusts and preparing enduring powers of attorney.

Managing partner Patrick Brown said: “We have seen continued confidence in the real estate, energy and infrastructure sectors. In addition, activity is strong in corporate restructuring and acquisitions.

“We are expanding our teams to continue to provide the highest quality legal support and advice to some of the most significant companies and organisations in the country. Tughans is committed to developing our talented people to support our clients with all their legal needs.”