DWF has announced a double-digit rise in revenues at the half-year point as the northwest firm continues its run of rapid growth.

The firm saw turnover increase by 12% to £36m over the six-month period, with the corporate and commercial practice a particularly strong performer, posting 48% growth on last year.

DWF's finance and restructuring practice also boosted its revenues significantly, rising by 24%, while the firm's insurance and people practices rose by 12% and 10% respectively.

Managing partner Andrew Leaitherland (pictured) said: "We are slightly ahead of budget, which is a great sign, and we have really seen the benefits of our investments.

"We have been building up our corporate practice and have seen a large growth in revenues from last year, and litigation and employment have also been strong performers. We will be focusing on our real estate and litigation practices over the coming months as activity really starts to take off, and expect to end the year with a higher level of growth."

The results follow the firm's entrance into the UK top 50 rankings this year with turnover of £71.5m in 2009-10, up from £61.1m in 2008-09.

DWF was also among the fastest-growing firms by profits per equity partner, posting a 56.3% increase from £213,000 to £333,000.

The firm also kept on 16 of 18 newly-qualified lawyers in this year's intake, equating to a retention rate of 89%.