Charities today face a unique range of legal, regulatory and commercial challenges. The law relating to charity and not-for-profit enterprises is very specialised. Changing legislation and ever-increasing regulation means there has never been a greater need for comprehensive, specialist legal support in this area.

We combine our specialist knowledge of charity law and legislation with consistency and flexibility to give charities of all shapes and sizes the practical and commercial support needed to grow, fundraise and reach their goals.

Whilst in some situations, issues faced by charities can be similar to other businesses, our specialist team of charity lawyers understand, in depth, the challenges faced by not-for-profit organisations. We provide tailored legal advice that appropriately considers specialist factors relevant to charities such as risk, brand reputation, income streams and costs.

Integrity and trust are vital to the success of charitable organisations and enterprises. We are proud to share these values, and work to provide the highest standards of legal protection. We take the time to understand the aims of each charity we work with so we can deliver a personalised approach that delivers excellent value.

Practical legal advice for UK charitable law

We understand that charities, non-profits and foundations need a law firm to provide pragmatic and trustworthy advice, that is also commercially focused to support them in the operation of a thriving organisation – one that delivers the best outcomes for their beneficiaries.

We work with businesses, families and individuals who want to help others and create a better world. We assist in structuring your charitable giving to ensure it aligns with your values and supports causes you care about.

Individual Giving

We guide you through the process of setting up and running a charity or foundation as part of your life today, or as part of your estate planning. We can also assist in ensuring your giving is tax-efficient and advise on alternative options when appropriate.

Charity Registration and Formation

We work with companies who have established, or would like to establish, a corporate foundation. We advise on Charity Commission registration, daily operations and governance to ensure your organisation meets all appropriate legislation and regulatory requirements.

We offer extensive experience in the creation of new charities, and in restructuring existing charities, where their current arrangements are no longer appropriate. We have assisted a number of organisations through periods of change, and helped them in key strategic decisions such as mergers and partnering.

Even in the most testing circumstances, our clients are in safe hands.

Our approach to Charity Law

If you’re looking to set up a charity, need help with the management of your non-profit organisation or are looking to restructure a foundation, our dedicated team of charity solicitors at Simon Bethel Solicitors are appropriately placed to provide effective, pragmatic advice to ensure all aspects of charity law are handled effectively.

Our lawyers boast vast experience in all areas of charity law, and can use their broad range of knowledge to provide detailed legal guidance and assistance. We aim to build lasting relationships with our clients, which helps us to identify anticipate and support the issues that matter to you.

We act for a range of charitable bodies and non-profit organisations, and can also advise individuals and companies on the establishment of charitable trusts and tax-efficient giving. In instances where full charitable status is not the best option, we can also help with the establishment of alternative structures, such as community interest companies.

Our multi-disciplinary team are also able to draw on expertise from across the firm, including tax, employment and real estate specialists, to provide comprehensive support to all our charitable and philanthropy clients.

Our Charity Law Services

• Charity registration and formation • Finding the appropriate charitable structure • Charity property • Charity healthcare • Estate leases • Intellectual property and data protection issues • Charitable compliance • Regulation • Growth • Safeguarding • Dispute Resolution • Debt Recovery • Charity Employment and HR • Insolvency • Banking and finance • Commercial contracts