CMS is trusted by leading fund and asset managers, sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors for its ‘high-quality service’ across fund formation and investment, with notable international reach, especially in Luxembourg. The ’dedicated’ and ‘proactive’ team is led by Caroline Newsholme alongside Amanda Howard, recognised for her experience in fund structuring and equity raisings. Victoria Henry advises on fund structuring, establishment and governance in the UK and Europe, with a focus on student accommodation and co-living. Darren Stolzenberg covers the full lifecycle of open- and close-ended funds, while the ’excellent’ Patrick Groves is experienced in fund establishment, operation and sustainable investmentment strategies. William Lawrence, made partner in April 2025, is noted for his alternative investment funds and joint ventures expertise, acting for a range of institutions and private equity managers. George Metcalfe joined from Freeths LLP in January 2025, bringing experience in private fund establishment, fund participation and bespoke investment management structures.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A very well coordinated firm providing joined up high quality services. Very attentive and always provides high quality resources to help progress matters quickly and efficiently.’
‘They are trusted advisers who operate with confidence, providing strong guidance on client decisions and securing instructions. They are confident and capable of leading all-party calls and handling complex issues as they arise, including live meetings with large groups of advisers and clients on both sides of the deal.’
‘Dedicated team with strong capabilities across all levels of counsel, ensuring availability and consistent, competent service throughout complex projects.’
'The CMS practice brings together a very wide depth of expertise, not only in funds formation but in real estate, tax, banking and ESG. We have been able to consult a wide range of practice areas in different countries. The team itself have been a pleasure to work with: knowledgeable, proactive, well-resourced and able to meet our deadlines. We have felt very well looked after as a client.'
‘The team has an excellent funds and real estate practice. Patrick serves as an excellent sounding board on all fund matters. Their real estate transaction knowledge is outstanding, and their advice is pragmatic and efficient.’
'Amanda Howard has exceptional knowledge and experience in fund formation. As a client, we have the greatest confidence in knowing that Amanda has oversight of our matters. She can truly add add value with her commercial insights and guidance as well as having a very wide contact base within the sector. We highly value this relationship.'
Key clients
- APG
- Legal & General
- PATRIZIA
- Pension Insurance Corporation
- Principal Asset Management
- QuadReal
- Savills IM
- Tristan Capital Partners
- UBS Asset Management
- Verdion Asset Management
Work highlights
Advised Matter Real Estate, UK based pan-European fund manager, on the launch of its core open-ended single family rental (SFR) strategy fund, Matter UK Residential Income Fund.
Advised PATRIZIA on its investment in US developer and operator, Aligned Data Centers. The international platform encompasses entities in the US, UK, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands and Denmark.
Advised Verdion Asset Management on the launch and closing of its second European logistics fund, Verdion European Logistics Fund 2 SCSp. The fund is targeting value-add/core-plus investments in Germany, the Nordics and other markets across Europe.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Amanda Howard; Caroline Newsholme
Other key lawyers
Victoria Henry; Darren Stolzenberg; Patrick Groves; William Lawrence; George Metcalfe