The commercial property at CMS is noted for handling a broad range of issues. The ‘diligent and focused' Matt Barnes is a key name within the practice, and Neil Lacey has standout expertise in the acquisition, development and repurposing of commercial real estate. The team is headed by Abby Dry, who has longstanding experience in the commercial real estate sector. The group is well-versed in the full spectrum of matters concerning large-scale development. Lucy Murphy is also a key figure within the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘We like CMS Liverpool.’
‘Matt Barnes is effective. The quality is there and his client handling skills are really exceptional. Matt is an impressive lawyer. You really feel that Matt gets it and is 100% on your side. His previous experience from working in-house takes him to a different level.’
‘The tech which allows for a client login and contains a tracker on all ongoing matters.’
‘There is good teamwork internally and we have instant access to related matters such as litigation, disputes, external advise and tax matters.’
‘The Liverpool office works closely with our business to ensure they have sufficient, experienced resources to meet our needs. The ability to tap into advice in other areas e.g. planning, litigation and construction is immediate and individuals highly capable. Our business is made to feel valued by the senior team.'
‘The individuals that stand out are those who are knowledgeable, effective and responsive with an understanding of the drivers of our business needs related to any particular transaction.'
‘CMS are uniquely placed in the North West market to deliver vary large, complex, forward-funded annuity grade transactions.’
‘Matt Barnes is a diligent and focused lawyer. He has made a real impact on delivering key workstreams in relation to large-scale annuity transactions.’
Key clients
- Apollo
- ARA Dunedin
- Sainsburys
- Argos
- Arora Woking Retail Ltd
- LBA Realty
- LBA Logistics
- GARBE
- Mileway
- Pension Insurance Corporation
Work highlights
- Advising PIC on the £268m forward funding of no. 2 Ruskin Square opposite developer Schroders Capital UK Real Estate Fund being one of the largest post pandemic office deals.
- Advising Aldar on its acquisition of UK based development London Square Developments Limited for an enterprise deal value of £230m being the first entry into the UK property market for the Abu Dhabi based development company.
- Advising Lab Tech on the financing of Camden Market extending across an estate worth in excess of £1bn.
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.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Abby Dry
Other key lawyers
Matt Barnes; Neil Lacey; Lucy Murphy