Jessica Marshall

Jessica has been practising law since 2008, joined Harmans in 2014 and was appointed a Partner at Harmans in 2021. She holds a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Arts (English) from the University of Canterbury and has previously worked in law firms in both Auckland and London. She jointly leads our large commercial and property law team. Jessica specialises in residential and commercial conveyancing, business acquisitions and disposals, commercial leasing, refinancing and restructuring, franchises and general commercial matters. Jessica has a particular interest in legal matters associated with the hospitality industry including the accommodation and tourism sector. 

In addition to her legal expertise, Jessica is a Board member of the Central City Business Association, where she brings her enthusiasm for the Christchurch Central City and its diverse hospitality, retail and cultural experiences to the table. She is also a member of the Property Law Section of the New Zealand Law Society and Canterbury Women’s Legal Association.

Jessica is always looking for ways to make a positive impact to the community, having initiated the Harmans Good Deeds Programme, which encourages staff members to take a day’s paid leave to volunteer in the community and support various organisations, charities and events. She is also the honorary solicitor for her local Sumner Tennis & Squash Club. 

Some of Jessica’s recent work/projects include:  

• Acting for and advising a large hospitality group in relation to business acquisitions, leasing and general commercial affairs.
• Acting for and advising a large commercial property investor in relation to the acquisition and lease of commercial buildings, financing and construction matters.
• Acting for successful small to medium sized businesses in relation to their general commercial affairs, including succession planning. 
• Advising commercial landlords and tenants on lease obligations and assisting with rental relief resolution during the Covid-19 pandemic, in particular in the tourism industry.