News

For businesses, developers, investors, landlords and organisations across Yorkshire, property transactions are often among the most significant commercial decisions they will make. Whether acquiring development land, expanding a property portfolio, negotiating commercial leases or managing investment assets, having the right legal advisers can make all the difference.

Based in Huddersfield and supporting clients throughout Yorkshire and beyond, Eaton Smith's Commercial Property team provides practical, commercially focused legal advice designed to help clients achieve their objectives while managing risk and protecting long-term value.

Eaton Smith's Commercial Property team has earned recognition for both its legal expertise and client service. In 2025, the firm was proud to be a Yorkshire Business Awards winner, while the team's reputation for excellence was further acknowledged through its LawNet Awards 2025/26 finalist nomination for Commercial Property Team of the Year. These achievements reflect the team's commitment to delivering exceptional support to businesses, developers, investors and property owners across Yorkshire. [lawnet.co.uk]

Led by Partners James Burgess, Jamie Humpheson and Julie Evans, and supported by Martha Khan, Justine Boyes and Anne Wilson, the team advises on a broad range of commercial property matters, from acquisitions and disposals to development projects, investment portfolios and landlord and tenant issues.

What Does Eaton Smith's Commercial Property Team Do?

As experienced Commercial Property Solicitors in Huddersfield, the team advises businesses and organisations at every stage of the property lifecycle.

Their expertise includes:

• Commercial property acquisitions and disposals
• Property investment transactions
• Commercial leases
• Landlord and tenant matters
• Property finance and funding
• Portfolio management
• Joint venture structures
• Sector-specific property transactions

The team's approach combines technical legal expertise with commercial insight, ensuring clients receive advice that is both practical and aligned with their business goals.

Supporting Investors and Businesses

The team advises property investors in connection with acquisitions and disposals, finance and funding, portfolio transactions and ongoing property management matters, helping clients maximise and protect the value of their investments.

The team also works closely with landlords and tenants on all aspects of commercial leasing, including the granting and taking of leases, assignments, licences to occupy, lease variations and ongoing tenancy matters.

Specialist Sector Expertise

While the team supports clients across many industries, it has developed particular expertise in:

• Acquisitions and disposals of care homes
• Acquisitions and disposals of GP and Dentistry practices                  
• Acquisitions and disposals of educational institutions
•  Acquisitions, disposals and lease arrangements involving Charities
•  Commercial portfolio transactions
• Collaborative joint ventures
• Property development projects
• Estate and portfolio management

This specialist knowledge enables the team to provide commercially focused advice that reflects the unique challenges and opportunities within each sector.

Meet the Team

One of the strengths of Eaton Smith's Commercial Property team is its collaborative approach. While each team member brings their own expertise and experience, they share a commitment to delivering practical legal advice, responsive communication and exceptional client service. By working closely together, the team provides seamless support for clients across the region and nationally.

James Burgess – Partner and Head of Commercial Property

With over 22 years’ experience in the field, James Burgess leads Eaton Smith's Commercial Property team and advises investors and businesses on a broad range of property matters. With extensive experience in acquisitions and disposals, funding arrangements and joint ventures, James is known for providing pragmatic, commercially focused advice that helps clients achieve their objectives. His strong understanding of the property market makes him a trusted adviser to businesses and property professionals across the region and nationally.

Jamie Humpheson – Partner

Jamie Humpheson advises businesses, investors and property owners on acquisitions, disposals, landlord and tenant matters and investment transactions. Known for his responsive and practical approach, Jamie works closely with clients to understand their commercial objectives and provide clear, straightforward legal advice. Clients value his commercial awareness and ability to find solutions to complex property issues.

Julie Evans – Partner

Julie Evans advises landlords, tenants, investors and businesses on a wide range of commercial property transactions, including lease negotiations, acquisitions and disposals. She is known for her approachable nature, attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional client service. Julie takes pride in making complex legal matters accessible and easy to understand for clients.

Martha Khan – Solicitor

Martha Khan supports clients across a variety of commercial property matters, including acquisitions and disposals, landlord and tenant work and property management issues. Her proactive approach and commitment to building strong client relationships have made her a valued member of the Commercial Property team.

Justine Boyes and Anne Wilson – Legal Assistants

Justine Boyes and Anne Wilson play a vital role in supporting the Commercial Property team, helping transactions progress efficiently from instruction through to completion. Their attention to detail, organisation and commitment to client care help ensure clients receive a professional and responsive service throughout their matter.

Why Choose Eaton Smith's Commercial Property Team?

Businesses searching for Commercial Property Solicitors in Huddersfield and across Yorkshire want advisers who understand more than just the legal process. They need a team that understands commercial realities, identifies opportunities and helps overcome challenges.

Eaton Smith's Commercial Property team combines legal expertise, industry knowledge and a genuine commitment to client service. From property development and investment acquisitions to commercial leases and portfolio management, the team delivers practical advice tailored to each client's objectives.

If you are planning a property acquisition, investment transaction or lease arrangement, Eaton Smith's Commercial Property team is ready to help. Contact the team on 01484 821300 or get in touch through the Eaton Smith website.