TLT has taken on a second DLA Piper partner as the expansive Bristol-based firm continues to recruit for its upcoming Manchester launch.

The firm has sealed the hire of Manchester intellectual property (IP) partner Graeme Orchison, who has been a partner at DLA for more than 17 years and led the firm's northwest technology, media and communications group. He is top ranked by Chambers and Partners for Manchester IP work.

Orchison's move to TLT will see him team up with former colleague Stuart Campbell, who earlier this month also made the switch from DLA to TLT.

TLT expects to open a Manchester base in Spinningfields later this summer to focus on commercial litigation, IP litigation and commercial contracts work.

As well as Orchison and Campbell, the firm has also hired commercial disputes specialist Emma Flower as a partner from Pinsent Masons and expects the office to grow to comprise 20-30 people and generate income of £3m-£5m within 18 months. Discussions are still ongoing as to who will head up the base.

TLT managing partner David Pester said: "These strategic appointments support our aim to deepen our expertise and are in direct response to demand for services from some of our major clients based in the north of England. The launch of an office in Manchester supports our strategy to have a strong UK-wide presence from which to deliver services and also supports our industry sector focus."

The firm recently announced strong financial results for 2012-13, posting a 10% hike in turnover to £49m from £44.5m.