The new team joins from Wright, Johnston and Mackenzie.

Both Paul Adams, who is experienced in planning law, and John Smart, are commercial property partners. They will be joined by legal directors Yasmin Myles and Elisa Miller, paralegal Jennifer Callaghan and legal administrator Lucy Bird, all specialising in commercial real estate.

Residential property associate Jenna Gallacher and residential conveyancing senior paralegal Hazel McGillivray also join Thorntons in Inverness alongside private client executry manager Anna MacLeod-Adams and trainee executry manager Krysty Steele.

Mr Adams said: “It is a refreshing new chapter to be part of the launch team that builds Thorntons’ first official location in the Highlands.

“From early conversations I was really impressed by Thorntons and value the knowledgeable yet human dynamic of the senior team. Their open and supportive culture and values run throughout the whole business and that has been evident right from the beginning of this planned move. As an independent Scottish law firm which is ambitious to grow, I’m excited for what the future holds.”

Lesley Larg, managing partner, Thorntons, said: “It is tremendous to welcome such senior legal figures who are well-established in the local marketplace to Thorntons.

“The team on the ground will primarily focus on providing commercial real estate, planning, residential conveyancing and wills, powers of attorney and succession planning advice. Clients will also be able to benefit from the wider network of expertise in the firm such as employment law, dispute resolution, immigration and family law. We already support a variety of businesses, families, and individuals in the Highlands and establishing a permanent base in Inverness is the next step in growing our offering.

“We’ve long contributed to the communities in which we operate and we look forward to engaging with local groups in Inverness to make a positive difference.”

Ewan Miller, commercial property partner, Thorntons, said: “Inverness is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe and this will only accelerate with the creation of the new free port. We look forward to working with clients old and new in providing high quality and responsive commercial legal advice as the area continues to grow and prosper.”