Established property lawyer Kathy Toon, has joined Martineau as a partner in the firm’s real estate practice – bringing with her more than 20 years of commercial property experience.

Birmingham Post columnist Ms Toon’s CV includes a role as senior assistant solicitor at Edge & Ellison, national head of retail at DLA Piper and most recently as partner at Clarke Willmott.

While her career kick-started at a sole practitioner in Bristol, she has spent the last 14 years living and working in Birmingham – a city which she describes as “a big, bustling, interesting place to be” and a “good area to do business in.”

A specialist in the retail sector, Ms Toon provides strategic advice on property holdings to her clients.

Her experience includes acquisitions and disposals, development and landlord and tenant work.

Ms Toon said: “The property market has changed considerably in recent years and things won’t go back to how they were.

“It’s a brave new world and companies need to look at how they operate during times of recession in order to safeguard their progress.

“For example, more retailers than ever before are taking a strategic view of how property fits into their overall operations and are working their property portfolios in a way they have not done before.”

She added: “Martineau’s reputation is growing and I felt this was definitely the right time to join.

“I look forward to adding to the depth and strength of the existing team and the retail expertise within the firm. I’m confident that I’ll be able to introduce clients to each other in a way that will be beneficial for all concerned.”

John Rice, head of the real estate group at Martineau, said: “Kathy’s reputation precedes her – her name speaks volumes. We’re delighted she’s decided to join Martineau – her appointment comes at exactly the right time as the firm evolves and grows and we’re certain her expertise in retail will help us broaden our work within the property sector.”

Bill Barker, Martineau’s managing partner, added: “Kathy’s a good fit for Martineau – her results-driven approach is exactly what makes her such a great asset. She’s a well-known and highly respected lawyer and I’m looking forward to seeing the impact she has on the Real Estate team in 2011.”