“We are one of the first law firms in the country to switch to operating as a limited company,” said managing director Paul Berwin, who founded the Harrogate-based business in the mid-1990s.

“The decision, taken after a major review, gives Berwins the right corporate management structure for its future development, as well as giving us the opportunity to bring some more talented individuals into the boardroom,” said Mr Berwin.

The other existing LLP partners who become directors are Sue Blake, Carolynn Peace and Stephen Root.

They are joined by four newly-appointed directors: private client lawyer Julie Jewers, family lawyer Sarah Smith, employment lawyer Natalie Saunders and practice manager Caroline Davison. Caroline becomes one of the first non-lawyer managers of a law firm in the country in another innovative move for the firm, taking the title of operations director.

John Barrett, one of the firm’s senior partners, has moved to a new role as consultant, and remains a key member of the practice.

“The board is made up of directors who come from diverse backgrounds which broadens the range of experience,” said Mr Berwin.

“We are confident that this will strengthen our ability to achieve extraordinary outcomes for our clients – at a time when they need it most – and to continue to grow and develop the business.”

The firm will continue to be known as Berwins.