Corporate lawyer Alex joins the Wigan office from Manchester's Brabners Chaffe Street LLP. The 26-year-old from Leyland said: "Stephensons is very much a client-focused firm and this position will give me the opportunity to be a key member of an experienced and expanding corporate team."

Meanwhile, newly qualified solicitor Daniel has boosted the clinical negligence department in Leigh after completing his training contract with the Dental Law Partnership in Nantwich.

The 24-year-old said: "Stephensons has an enviable reputation as one of the leading clinical negligence law firms in the country and I'm part of a large team dedicated to recovering losses for our clients, against private practitioners, NHS Trusts and general practitioners amongst others."

Stephensons managing partner, Ann Harrison, said: "We're pleased to welcome Alex and Daniel, two rising stars, to our corporate and clinical negligence teams. Lateral hire will continue to have a key part to play in our strategy to grow the practice in 2008, as we aim to strengthen our position."