Fiona Melville, formerly a partner at JWS, has been appointed to the Middletons partnership in Sydney. 

Melville has carved out a legal career focusing on energy and resources law for the last 14 years, Middletons said in a statement. 

"[She] is a leader in the development of trading electricity, gas, carbon and environmental products."

Middletons' new partner is called upon for her expertise in major project developments, electricity and gas wholesale and retail trading and greenhouse gas reporting, said Middletons national managing partner, Nick Nichola.

"[Melville] is the first port of call for companies seeking advice in dealing in environmental products such as carbon permits and renewable energy certificates and is well across energy regulatory issues."

Melville was named in the Australian Legal Business top 40 Energy & Resources lawyers in 2008 and in the Energy & Resources Section of Doyle's Guide to the Australian Legal Profession in 2009.

Melville herself said the firm is a "fantastic fit" for her area of specialty. 

"Middletons' growth has been exceptional in the past few years and with a strong presence in Western Australia, particularly in the energy and resources sector," she said.