Wragge & Co LLP has appointed real estate expert Mike Trainer as its newest partner. The commercial development and investment specialist joins Wragge & Co's 170-lawyer Real Estate Group from Hammonds, taking the total number of real estate partners to 28.

Mike joined Hammonds in 1997, becoming a partner in 2001. During a 17-year career, he has established strong client relationships and a leading reputation. Experienced in a range of commercial property transactions, he acts for investors, developers and major corporates on acquisitions, disposals, joint venture and development agreements.

Senior partner Quentin Poole said: "With one of the largest and most highly regarded property practices in the UK, real estate is crucial to the firm's continued success. Mike is an established name in the real estate market with an excellent reputation for providing a dedicated and commercially focused client service. He's a first-class addition to the team."

Mike Trainer said: "Having been part of the real estate scene for a number of years, I've seen Wragge & Co in action and have been impressed with the quality of its lawyers and its ambition. I'm looking forward to joining a practice that puts client service at the heart of its approach and has real energy and drive for growth."

Mike becomes the 11th partner in the Commercial Development & Investment Team. This team includes partners John Burns, Mark Chester, Mark Dakeyne, Sally Pinkerton, Robert Caddick, Peter Thorne, Huw Roberts, David Pettingale and Sue Bennett.

Supported by more than 60 other lawyers, the team works alongside planning, tax, finance, environment and construction specialists to provide full service real estate advice to UK and international developers and investors. Highlights include advising on the City's biggest property transaction – the sale of Cutlers Gardens Estate for over £400 million, working with Miller Developments on the £400 million 'Arena Central' mixed-use project in Birmingham, and winning a lead role advising the University of Central England on strategic property matters.

Wragge & Co's Real Estate Group is one of the largest full service real estate teams in the UK. It advises major private and public organisations on matters ranging from asset management to environment; planning to tax; and litigation to regeneration. Clients include Argent Estates, Arsenal Football Club, Development Securities, Hines, Marks & Spencer and ProLogis Developments.

With Mike's appointment, the total number of Wragge & Co partners will be 111.

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For further information about this press release, contact Kathryn Hobbs on +44 (0)121 213 2397, Alexa Highfield on +44 (0)121 213 2396 or Matthew Purcell on +44 (0)121 213 2360

This press release may contain information of general interest about current legal issues, but does not give legal advice.