Stephenson Harwood has added two lawyers to its partnership in its smallest round in four years.

Both of the firm's new partners are based in London, with marine and international trade lawyer Cristan Evans and real estate lawyer Simon Brading receiving promotions.

It is the smallest number of new partners made up since 2010, when the firm also made two promotions. Last year it made up four new partners, while in the previous year it gained a partner trio. In 2011 the firm received four partner additions.

The promotions come after a year in which the firm has made nine lateral partner hires.

Stephenson Harwood chief executive Sharon White (pictured) said: "Both Cristan and Simon are highly regarded by clients and colleagues alike and will play important roles in the future development of their respective practice areas.

"I congratulate them on their promotions to partnership and look forward to their support in helping Stephenson Harwood continue to grow and develop."

The news comes after research by Legal Week found that global promotions among the top 20, excluding DWF, which makes partner promotions in November, are up by 14% on last year, with 370 lawyers making the grade this year compared to 325 among the equivalent group in 2013.

Only five firms – Allen & Overy, Berwin Leighton Paisner, Eversheds, Irwin Mitchell and Linklaters – made up fewer partners globally than in the previous year.