Jessica Smith
Senior associate
Jessica is a senior associate in the projects, development and construction team in the London and Oxford offices. She advises on non-contentious construction and development matters across a range of sectors, including energy and natural resources, hotels and hospitality, retail, healthcare, social housing, commercial, motorsport and high-value private residential.
She acts for developers, owners, lenders, investors, purchasers, landlords and tenants, ranging from established corporates and start-up and spin-out companies to private individuals and family offices. Jessica advises on the construction aspects of development projects and provides transactional support on real estate, corporate, banking and social housing transactions.
I have always been fascinated by the role buildings play in shaping the way we live and work, and how thoughtful design can breathe new life into historic buildings, adapting them for modern use while respecting and preserving their architectural character and heritage. Every project is different, but the constants are the need for pragmatic, commercially focused advice and close collaboration across the project team.
Her practice includes drafting and negotiating industry-standard and bespoke construction documentation, including building contracts, professional consultants’ appointments, collateral warranties, bonds, guarantees, development agreements, agreements for lease and licences for alterations. Jessica also advises on development finance transactions, including construction input to facility agreements and related security documentation, acting for both lenders and borrowers, as well as on sale and acquisition transactions.
She provides strategic advice on contractor insolvencies, termination, delay and disruption issues, payment disputes, and liquidated damages claims. Jessica has advised on the development financing and construction aspects of the conversion of landmark historic buildings in London, the refurbishment and new-build development of unique private residences, and a range of private members’ clubs, with project values regularly exceeding £100 million.
Jessica qualified as a solicitor in 2018. She trained at Penningtons Manches Cooper before spending several years at another international City law firm. She has recently returned to Penningtons Manches Cooper, where she continues to advise clients on complex development and construction matters.
Recent work highlights
Development of super prime private residences
Development finance for historic building
Housing development
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