Leading law firm Freeths has welcomed Partner Marcus Devanny to its award-winning real estate team. Joining from Shoosmiths, he will be based in the firm’s highly regarded Oxford office.
With more than 20 years’ experience, Marcus has built a well-respected practice acting for institutional landlords, corporate investors and corporate occupiers, on disposals, acquisitions and lettings, as well as providing property assistance on corporate transactions.
Consistently ranked in Legal 500 as a leading lawyer, he has a particular focus on occupier clients, international asset management and landlord investment portfolios, and routinely leads the delivery of high-profile, strategic real estate transactions, both nationally and internationally. Marcus’ particular strengths include advising institutional landlords and corporate occupiers on the acquisition and management of their real estate portfolios, international real estate portfolio management and co-counselling with law firms throughout the globe.
Joining Marcus, also from Shoosmiths, is Senior Associate Becky Staunton. They will work closely with the real estate team in Oxford and National Head of Real Estate, Darren Williamson, to support in the delivery of first-class services and the strategic expansion of the firm’s leading service line.
Commenting on the appointments, Partner and Head of Oxford Real Estate Patrick Whetter said: “We are delighted to welcome Marcus and Becky to our ever-expanding team. As the firm continues along its consistent, upwards growth trajectory, the wealth of experience that they bring will complement our strategy and enhance our renowned high-quality service delivery for our clients across the UK, and internationally.”
Marcus Devanny added: “I am extremely pleased to be joining Freeths during such an exciting period of growth, and recognition for its outstanding dedication to its clients and people. I am very much looking forward to contributing to the firm’s ongoing success and assisting with the delivery of quality legal advice, to both new and existing clients.”
Marcus’s appointment is the latest appointment in a number of lateral hires in 2025 for Freeths’ real estate team including partner Stephen Crook recently joining the firm’s Manchester office.