NEWCASTLE law firm Sintons has signalled the continued growth of its commercial group with a new appointment.

Corporate finance lawyer Luke Phelan has joined Sintons from a niche commercial firm in the East Midlands, where he was associate director.

He has five years’ experience of corporate and commercial work, including acting regularly for clients in the internet and software sectors.

Notable transactions include acting for a modern and expanding web design company in relation to a private equity investment which involved a complex convertible share structure, and the purchase and subsequent re-sale of a large Midlands-based sports and social club.

Phelan said: “Coming from the North East, Sintons is a firm that I have known and admired for a long time. The firm’s professional, friendly atmosphere and its reputation for exceptional client service really stand out.”

Karen Simms, head of the company and commercial department said the 45-strong group was advising on a greater number of higher-value and complex transactions than at any time in its history.

“Having recently been described as giving ‘excellent advice’ in the 2012 Legal 500, with Luke’s arrival, we’re pleased to be strengthening our team further,” she said.