FAST-GROWING law firm Newtons Solicitors has made three new appointments to work out of its offices in Darlington, Stokesley and Richmond.

Dave Birks has joined as an LLP member of Newtons litigation team; his assistant, Mark Reeves, is a newly-qualified solicitor; and David Lucas has joined as an LLP member in the commercial team.

The appointments follow Newtons’ acquisition of long-established Stokesley solicitors, Thorp Parker, last autumn.

Chris Newton, Newtons Solicitors managing director, said: “Having fought against Dave Birks in court I’m delighted that he has joined Newtons together with Mark Reeves. They strengthen our litigation presence in the North East considerably for both commercial and private work."

Newtons Solicitors’ group fee income increased from £1.8m in 2013 to £2.6m in 2014 and is expected to be £3.7m this year.

Chris Newton and his wife, Sarah, who is also a director, founded the business which also has offices in Harrogate, Ripon, York, Ilkley, Leyburn and Knaresborough. The group has 13 directors and LLP partners and 38 lawyers.

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