20 Jul 2026
Wesley Smith Joins Kirkland & Ellis as Real Estate Partner
"Wesley Smith joins Kirkland & Ellis as a partner in the Real Estate Practice Group, focusing on digital infrastructure and real estate debt and equity transactions."
Mr. Smith advises institutional investors, borrowers and lenders on a wide range of real estate debt and equity transactions, with a particular focus on digital infrastructure development and construction financings. His practice includes originating and restructuring mortgage, mezzanine, construction and bridge loans, as well as other co-lender arrangements across asset classes such as digital infrastructure, hospitality, office, retail, industrial, logistics and multifamily properties. He joins Kirkland as a partner in the firm’s transactional real estate practice.
Mr. Smith joins Kirkland from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, where he was a partner. He has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch from 2021 through 2024. Before beginning his legal career, Mr. Smith served nine years on active duty in the U.S. Army, including as a Ranger with the 75th Ranger Regiment and as a Staff Sergeant.