A national firm has said it needs 50 new staff over the next two years to cope with soaring demand. Howes Percival will appoint partners and recruit solicitors and support staff as part of a growth plan. The extra fee earners will be across the firm’s six offices and will bolster all practice areas.

The firm says it has experienced increased demand for its services post-pandemic, with the litigation team growing by 38% and commercial property increasing by 30%. Other teams reporting growth include employment, private client & estates and social housing.

Geraint Davies, chairman, said: ‘Our continued growth will be based on the ongoing investment we make in our people, both through external appointments and nurturing our existing talent. We’ve created an incredibly strong support mechanism around our teams to not only safeguard their wellbeing but also recognise and help those who want to progress their career with us.’

Unlike some other firms cutting back-office staff, the firm said it wanted to grow this side of the business. Of the current 314 headcount, 112 people are classed as support staff.

Natalie Clarke, head of people, added: ‘As well as wanting to attract the best legal talent, we are building our non-fee earner teams so that we can support our people and constantly deliver the best possible service for clients. While we have remained extremely busy, and we hope there are signs that the market is looking brighter, we do see the next year as an opportunity to attract top talent.’

The firm has recently opened offices in Cambridge and Milton Keynes to complement its existing sites in Leicester, Manchester, Northampton and Norwich.

In the year ended 30 April 2022, the firm increased turnover by 12% to £26.4m but saw operating profit drop marginally to £10.67m. Net current assets dropped by 18% to £11.4m.