Truman Hoyle has lured partner Andrew Seaton across from Australian Business Lawyers (AB Lawyers). Seaton, who was one of AB Lawyers'  founding partners, has joined the Sydney firm's corporate and commercial practice.

Seaton specialises in corporate regulation and M&A, and advises clients in the IT, pharmaceutical and manufacturing industries.

"The firm has experienced considerable client growth this year," said managing partner Shane Barber in a statement. He said more US- and Asia-Pacific-based technology companies instruct Australian law firms, because these firms charge lower rates than the major US and UK firms.

Barber also sees more demand from countries in the Pacific region, including New Zealand, for regulatory assistance on telecommunications matters.

The firm has also brought on board four new lawyers across its practice areas. Venus Amoro and Clive Lee have joined the firm's corporate & commercial practice, while former ABC counsel Megan Edwards joined the IP and media practice. Mitchell Kelly has been appointed in the firm's technology practice. He comes from Siemens Plc in London, where he was a corporate counsel.

Truman Hoyle has grown in the last five years from two partners and two lawyers to 11 partners and 30 professionals.