Covering the entire scope of real estate matters, the team at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP regularly advises on investments, developments, asset management, and divestments. The team showcases specialised expertise in the private equity and hospitality sectors and is spearheaded by Anne Petitjean, who combines significant experience in complex construction, development, leases and off-plan matters. David Lacaze and Isabelle Augais departed the firm in 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Anne Petitjean is particularly effective and has a great ability to quickly identify the issues at hand. She demonstrates tenacity in protecting her clients' interests.’
- ‘This team stands out for its exceptional English fluency and cultural literacy, which means they understand international clients better than most and communicate with clarity and nuance across borders.'
- 'Client management is a genuine strength: they are consistently responsive, easy to work with, and the kind of good people you want around the table.'
- 'This is a focused, specialist bench with real depth and diversity—bringing complementary perspectives that improve judgment and execution.'
- 'Their innovation shows up in practical ways that clients feel: diverse teams deployed thoughtfully, clear and timely communication, and collaborative ways of working that streamline delivery while keeping stakeholders closely aligned.’
- ‘Anne Petitjean is notably strong on property; she’s responsible, clear in her advice and drafting, and her English is excellent, which materially improves coordination on international matters.'
Key clients
- Amundi Immobilier
- Abrdn
- Renault
- Immo Azuréen
- Dyson
- GravitHy
- GreenYellow
- Alten
- Casetify
- Sage
- Neolithe
- Idemia
Work highlights
Advising Amundi Immobilier in relation to negotiation of the commercial lease for the headquarters of Deloitte France and AXA within Majunga Tower in La Défense.
Advising GreenYellow on the conclusion of its strategic partnership and lease agreement with Carrefour for the development and installation of photovoltaic car park shades on more than 350 Carrefour hypermarket and supermarket sites in mainland France.
Advising Abrdn on the acquisition of a student and coliving building in Cergy with 551 rooms.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Anne Petitjean