Patrick Brown, managing partner, 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.”

Chris Milligan has been announced as a new partner in the commercial real estate team. Mr Milligan specialises in energy and will work alongside Andrew Kirke on energy and infrastructure projects in Northern Ireland and further afield.

Mr Kirke joined the firm seven years ago and has worked for some of the biggest names in the energy sector. He now becomes a partner.

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

The firm has also welcomed Fiona Kirkpatrick as private client director. Ms Kirkpatrick has extensive experience in advising on a wide range of private client matters such as estate planning, establishing trusts and preparing enduring powers of attorney.