Mr O’Hagan joins TLT from DWF, bringing over 10 years’ experience in the real estate sector, and has been hired to help meet growing client demand for cross-jurisdictional real estate expertise.

He is qualified in Ireland, England and Wales and Northern Ireland and has extensive experience handling a range of commercial real estate, corporate and finance transactions with cross-border aspects.

He also has a deep knowledge of the Irish legal market, having spent the past three years working in Dublin.

Mr O’Hagan’s practice has included acting for a variety of clients ranging from small and medium sized businesses to multinational corporations and lending institutions, including advising corporate occupiers in the retail sector and acting on the real estate financing aspects of major energy projects located in Ireland.

At TLT, he will provide cross-jurisdictional support to the firm’s national real estate team as well as contributing to TLT’s ‘all-Ireland’ offering.

Katharine Kimber, partner and head of location in Northern Ireland, said: “We are ambitious for our clients and want to attract the leading players in the market to support them. With Jonathan’s appointment, we’re doing just that.

“Jonathan’s appointment reflects TLT’s strategic vision to continue to invest in its locations with a view of expanding its national reach across the UK.

“We are seeing an increase in demand for real estate expertise from our clients. Jonathan will be instrumental in supporting our ongoing growth in the Northern Ireland market.”

Judith Hewitson, partner at TLT, added: “Jonathan’s appointment is a mark of our intent to grow and expand our footprint in Northern Ireland.

“With many of our clients in Northern Ireland working on transactions that have cross-border aspects, Jonathan’s well-rounded real estate practice and proven track-record as a respected adviser to a variety of clients will be a significant draw. We’re delighted to welcome him to the team.”   

Commenting on his appointment, Mr O’Hagan said: “Many of my clients, both in the UK and Ireland, are seeking to take advantage of emerging trends such as the increasing prominence of green building practices, or the accelerating diversification of retail spaces.

“I am excited to be joining in TLT’s Belfast office. TLT has built a strong and exciting client portfolio, and its ambition is clear to see.

“I am pleased to be joining such a dynamic firm at such a pivotal moment for the market, and to be working alongside clients and colleagues as they prepare for what comes next.”