City law firm Wedlake Bell has welcomed two new partners, James Fry and Emma Sear, to its commercial property and residential property teams respectively. James joins from Fladgate, bringing over 25 years of experience in commercial real estate, while Emma arrives from Trowers & Hamlins with a strong background in residential property matters.
James is recognised as a leading figure in the hotel and leisure sector and will continue to grow this area at Wedlake Bell. He specialises in advising privately owned and family-run hotel businesses, from single sites to large portfolios. ‘I’m excited to build on Wedlake Bell’s reputation in the hotel and leisure space,’ said James, who acts for a wide range of domestic and international clients.
Emma’s practice focuses on residential real estate, particularly for high-net-worth individuals. She advises on portfolio transactions, property management and first registrations of unregistered titles. ‘Joining Wedlake Bell allows me to deepen my work with private clients and complex property structures,’ she said, referencing a recent instruction involving the restructuring of a substantial rural estate.
Their appointments bring the firm’s partnership to 80 and follow a series of strategic hires earlier in 2025. Managing partner Martin Arnold commented: ‘We are thrilled to welcome James Fry and Emma Sear… their arrival marks our intent to continue to expand our already substantial offering in both the commercial property and private client spheres.’
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