Appleby‘s property team was augmented in March 2026 by the arrival of Bedell Cristin’s Jeff O’Boyle, strengthening its ability to assist developers overseeing commercial, residential and mixed-use projects, as well as transactional mandates and property lending work. The team is led by John Bisson, who has considerable expertise across the spectrum of real estate developments, accompanying clients from the start of construction to the sale of completed units. Kate Westwater handles the property aspects of wills and estates, and is also able to assist with property financing arrangements.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- Appleby's Real Estate team stands out for its combination of technical expertise and practical, commercial focus. What distinguishes them from other Jersey firms is their ability to cut through complexity and deliver clear, actionable advice without unnecessary delay. The team has a strong grasp of the local regulatory and legal landscape, which is essential when navigating Jersey's property market, and they demonstrate a genuine understanding of their clients' commercial objectives rather than simply advising on legal risk in isolation. The team has shown a willingness to engage pragmatically with transaction structures and to work collaboratively with other advisers — whether accountants or other intermediaries — which is increasingly important in more complex real estate mandates. Their approach to communication and transaction management reflects a modern, client-focused mindset.
- I have worked with both John Bisson and Kate Westwater, and both have impressed me with their professionalism and practical approach. They are straightforward to deal with — they give clear advice, manage matters efficiently, and do not overcomplicate things. In a jurisdiction where relationships and trust matter enormously, both individuals bring the kind of calm, no-nonsense competence that instills confidence. They are prompt in their responses and demonstrate a clear understanding of what clients actually need to achieve, rather than simply what the legal position is in the abstract.
- Expert knowledge in the local market and fast turnaround of work.
- Expert knowledge in the commercial property and residential property sectors and all areas of property development.
- The team is always available, and when required, they react to situations quickly. While they always draft to your advantage, they give pragmatic advice on what negotiation points are really important and which can be conceded.
- The individuals we work with are approachable and easy to deal with. They provide clear, practical advice and are responsive when issues arise.
- Appleby’s residential and commercial property team is easy to work with and provides a good balance of technical advice and practical input. They understand how transactions work in practice and are able to tailor their advice accordingly, which is helpful when dealing with both residential and commercial matters.
- High quality legal property advice. John Bisson is probably the best property lawyer on the island. Jeff O'Boyle is an experienced lawyer, so they now have strength and depth.
- Knowledge of local laws and practices. They are the best on the island.
- Excellent team, great knowledge and experience.
Key clients
- Dandara Jersey Limited
- Aedifica SA/NV
- WM Morrison Supermarkets Limited
- Palladium Investments and Securities Limited
- Burano Limited
- Partina Limited
- Boots (UK) Limited
- Barclays Bank plc
- Seymours Limited
- Pizza Express (Jersey) Limited
- HSBC Bank Plc/HSBC Private Bank (Suisse) SA, Guernsey branch
- RBSI Limited
Work highlights
Advised Dandara Jersey Limited on the culmination of the development of new offices for the Government of Jersey.
Advised Aedifica SA/NV on the disposal of multiple residential units and development land, pursuant to 2022 agreements.
Advised a private client on multiple commercial and residential property transactions as part of a comprehensive estate planning exercise.
Lawyers
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Practice head
John Bisson
Other key lawyers
Kate Westwater; Jeff O'Boyle