Leading the team are partners Jonathan Tyson and Gemma Tyson, who bring a wealth of experience in handling transactions in areas including dental, pharmacy, opticians, children's nurseries and veterinary practices. They will be supported by partner Katie Taken; associates Jonathan Hill and Louise McDonald; and solicitor Stena Rham.

Gemma said: “Shakespeare Martineau’s healthcare team is already very successful and highly regarded, and we believe that together, we will become greater than the sum of our parts. The firm’s great reputation, loyal people and ambitious growth plans were significant factors in our decision to join.

“Being part of Shakespeare Martineau will give us the support and platform we need to truly focus on the healthcare sector, expand our expertise and specialisms, and provide a consistent high-quality service to our clients.”

Since qualifying in 2011, Katie has been advising on the sale and purchase of pharmacy and dental practices, as well as all aspects of the childcare and education sector, acting for first-time buyers, retiring sellers and corporates.

Jonathan supports clients across a range of sectors, with particular expertise in dental practice acquisitions and disposals, and dental corporate groups looking to expand their portfolios through acquisition.

Louise’s clients include individual sole traders, partnerships and corporate groups. She has a great deal of experience working with dental practices and pharmacies, and advising business owners on reorganisations, financing, sale or acquisition of individual and group practices.

Stena supports on dental, pharmacy and childcare sector transactions, including business sales and purchases, mergers, joint ventures, corporate lending and company incorporation. She also advises on the regulatory requirements of the NHS and the Care Quality Commission.

Joseph Soul, partner and head of Shakespeare Martineau’s commercial property and development team, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Jonathan, Gemma, Katie, Jonathan, Louise and Stena to the firm. Their recruitment has been part of a long-standing strategy to enhance our existing healthcare offering and develop a national platform.”