CMS advises clients on portfolio and single asset transactions across a broad spectrum of sectors, including the office, logistics, life sciences and residential sectors. The practice, led by Marie Scott, John Cumpson, Andrew Banton and Chris Rae, has recently seen major growth. In April 2023, Paul Paling and Melanie Hughes joined from Michelmores LLP; in July 2023, Michael Buchanan joined from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP; in October 2023, Barry Edgar joined from Dentons; and in January 2024, Rebecca Moore joined from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner. Caroline Maude advises on office and mixed-use investments. Alan Crawford is well-versed in assisting Middle Eastern investors in their UK investments. Amit Unadkat assists international clients in inward investments into Europe. Leilah Rawle has especial energy expertise. Amanda Howard is another key name in the practice. In April 2023, Scott Curtis and Irfaan Khaliq were promoted to partner. Ciaran Carvalho left the practice in April 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The CMS team are always very professional, pragmatic and commercial. They are quick to identify "red flags" on any transactions and also very adept at finding solutions. They work in a timely manner and are a key asset to any transaction team. ’
‘They work well with other teams within CMS when other expertise from the firm is needed.’
‘Jules Needleman takes time to understand the business and the team. He provides an excellent service.’
‘Alan Crawford provides strong strategic advice and commercial acumen.’
Key clients
- AimCo
- Annington Group
- Blackstone
- Columbia Threadneedle
- Federated Hermes
- GPE
- HB Reavis
- Herstshen Group
- InfraRed Capital Partners
- Mitsubishi Estate London Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Sainsburys on the buyout of their £1.1bn reversion portfolio of 26 supermarkets, a very complex deal involving the collapsing of the securitisation structure.
- Advised new client Annington Group, one of the largest private real estate owner in the UK, on the sale of almost 600 houses across 18 sites.
- Advised on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Statera Energy (UK based battery storage and renewable energy developer), worth £400m.
Lawyers
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
Marie Scott; John Cumpson; Andrew Banton; Chris Rae
Other key lawyers
Jules Needleman; Mark Heighton; Caroline Maude; David Wilkinson; Amanda Howard; Alan Crawford; Amit Unadkat; Leilah Rawle; Lindsey Barrett; James Miller; Hugh Picton Phillipps; David Crossley; Paul Paling; Melanie Hughes; Michael Buchanan; Barry Edgar; Rebecca Moore; Scott Curtis; Irfaan Khaliq