The firm opened its doors in North Castle Street in November 2004 with just three employees. Now based at Haymarket, it boasts a team of 121 employees and partners.

Led by partner Clare Macpherson, Thorntons’ Edinburgh team has delivered a 68 per cent increase in turnover since 2019/2020 – an impressive growth curve driven by a progressive people development strategy, lateral hires and a series of tactical mergers and acquisitions.

Since opening its doors in the early 2000s, Thorntons’ Edinburgh operation has significantly diversified its offering, growing from an office primarily focused on dispute resolution before rapidly adding new services through partner hires including land and rural business and commercial real estate.

Clare Macpherson, partner and head of Thorntons Edinburgh, said: “This is a significant milestone underlining two decades of positive growth in Edinburgh, as well as the strategic focus of Thorntons which is thriving in a competitive landscape.

“Edinburgh is a powerhouse in Scotland, and one of the most productive cities in the UK economy. Our office has evolved alongside the dynamic Edinburgh market, allowing us to tap into new opportunities in tech, real estate and higher education.

“From our base in Edinburgh and the Lothians, we have advised more than 45,000 clients across the UK and overseas. In the coming year we hope to expand our footprint to meet demand for office working, hosting clients and events, and we are committed to providing a dynamic and flexible work environment for our growing team.

“As we expand, we will remain agile and responsive to the needs of our clients, developing long-term strategies that account for fluctuating market conditions, and shifts in the global political landscape.”

As a large employer and established professional services provider in the city, Thorntons plays an active role in supporting the community and has partnered with organisations that are making a positive difference in the capital, including Four Square Homeless, CHAS and Social Bite.

Ms Macpherson continued: “Our aim has always been to build a scalable and sustainable Edinburgh and Lothians operation to meet the needs and ambitions of our clients and our people, and also the communities in which we operate. Our team dedicate meaningful time and resource to helping organisations on our doorstep to ensure we continue to give back to those we live and work beside.”

Lesley Larg, managing partner, added: “Thorntons is on a very positive growth trajectory fuelled by an unwavering dedication to our clients, people and the communities that we support.

“Our strong financial performance across the firm, including in key locations such as Edinburgh, means we can continue investing in the business, emerging technology and our people, ultimately benefiting the forward-thinking solutions we can provide to clients.

“There is power in the diversity of leadership, and our Edinburgh team is managed by a strong group of experienced lawyers who joined our firm from very different backgrounds. Clare is one of the leading female figures in the industry, bringing more than 30 years’ experience and an innovative outlook that helps us to enhance efficiencies, streamline workflows and deliver a superior service.”