James Donnelly

The Belfast-based law firm advised on 50 of the 263 transactions recorded in 2023, according to the latest Experian M&A report.

Overall, there was a 12 per cent decline in volume of deals in Northern Ireland and a 49 per cent decrease in total value to £442 million.

In the top five with Tughans were Arthur Cox who advised on 37 transactions, Carson McDowell on 36, A&L Goodbody on 30 and Davidson McDonnell Solicitors on 27.

Mills Selig advised on 17 deals, Turley Legal on 13, Shoosmiths on 11, DWF on seven and MacAllister McAleese on six.

James Donnelly, head of corporate at Tughans, said: “We are very pleased to be recognised as Northern Ireland’s leading corporate law firm for the ninth consecutive year. This is a testament to the trust placed in us by our clients and the expertise and dedication of our talented team.”

Corporate partner John McGuckian added: “It is a fantastic achievement to continue as the most active law firm in Northern Ireland on M&A transactions for nine consecutive years. We are incredibly grateful to our ambitious clients who we continue to support and we look forward to another productive year ahead.”

Managing partner Patrick Brown said: “Maintaining our position as the most active advisor in Northern Ireland for the ninth consecutive year demonstrates our position as the leading corporate law firm in Northern Ireland and this achievement coincides with our recent move to the Ewart on Bedford Square which supports us further in our growth and client-centric service.”