Law firm Mills & Reeve has announced a boost in sales.

The firm, which has offices in Birmingham, Cambridge, London and Norwich, has increased turnover by 12 per cent to #40.4 million from last year?s #36.1 million, with profits rising to #13.7 million.

Profit per equity partner was up #2,000 at #226,000.

The firm?s Birmingham office had a particularly strong year, with a 28 per cent rise in turnover, from #6.1 million to #7.8 million. The performance comes on the back of the firm?s move from its former Edgbaston base to Colmore Row in the city centre.

Significant lateral hires have also helped contribute to the improved bottom line.

Among them is partner Steve Allen, who joined Mills & Reeve from Wragge & Co to establish a commercial litigation team in Birmingham. Partner Matthew Hansell also joined with a brief to build a private client team.

The transfer of Wragge & Co?s 15-strong private client team, along with the launch of a new family and matrimonial team, means the private client team now has 30 staff and is one of the biggest in the city.

In all, 58 staff joined the Birmingham office in the last financial year. Growth in the Birmingham firm?s real estate group and insurance teams was impressive, along with the healthcare practice.

Guy Hinchley, managing partner of Mills & Reeve in Birmingham, said: ?During the last year we have been putting the finishing touches to a major expansion programme in Birmingham. Our investment in flagship premises, along with the addition of new services and staff has been rewarded with a major increase in turnover. Continued expansion is on the cards for 2005/6, coupled with the consolidation of our existing business.?

Mills & Reeve managing partner Mark Jeffries added: ?Turnover of #40 million has always been an important psychological barrier for the firm. The last 12 months have also seen us make several major strategic investments and we are looking forward to seeing the return coming through in 2005/6.?