Paris Smith LLP is well-placed to assist clients with the full gamut of leasehold enfranchisement, commercial and residential development projects, and property finance matters. John Mansell heads the team in Southampton, while the ‘hugely experienced’  Joanne Spittles advises on a wide variety of issues, including acquisitions and promotion agreements. Rachel Saint specialises in transactions within the retail and leisure sectors, and Hannah Winchester has vast experience in acting for retailers in landlord and tenant matters. Claire Long is a standout member of the team, who is recommended for her skill in managing real estate portfolios. In Winchester, Stuart Allen routinely acts for challenger banks and private lenders in property finance mandates.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Claire Long and Rachel Saint are both extremely personable and dedicated to providing a bespoke service.’

  • ‘The team at Paris Smith are highly experienced and knowledgeable in their field. They will always go the extra mile to ensure they provide a great service.’

  • ‘The team stands out due to its expertise, knowledge, and experience.’

  • ‘They are a highly regarded multi-faceted law firm with expert people that provide an exceptional service.’

  • ‘Joanne Spittles is a hugely experienced commercial property lawyer. She possesses expert knowledge of all commercial property transactions, including leasing, pre-lets, investment acquisitions/disposals, and funding solutions. Her greatest strength is her commercial acumen, which she uses to help advise and steer clients through complex negotiations and deliver a successful outcome.’

  • ‘They are quick to respond when contacted. They have excellent knowledge of the business sector. They are very keen to see best outcome for clients.’

  • 'Joanne has been great to work with. She provides sound advice, prompt responses, and she is patient under testing circumstances.'

Key clients

  • Phoenix Leisure Management Limited
  • Hobbycraft Group Limited
  • InterBay Funding, Ltd
  • Castle Trust Capital Plc
  • Park View Retail Limited
  • The Ancient Order of Foresters Friendly Society Limited
  • Bourne Leisure Limited
  • Co-operative Group Limited
  • Halo Accident Repair Centre Limited
  • Bourne Leisure Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised InterBay Funding Limited on the £24.9m refinancing of its student property portfolio.
  • Advised Hobbycraft Group Limited on its acquisition programme for new stores and dealing with a variety of landlord and tenant work in connection with its existing portfolio of leasehold properties.
  • Advising The Ancient Order of Foresters Friendly Society Limited on all of its property matters.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

John Mansell, Rachel Saint, Janet May, Stuart Allen, Natalie Clarke

Other key lawyers

Claire Long, Joanne Spittles, Lisa Busby, Hannah Winchester, Sean Hogan, Edward Watson