The charity law solicitors at Penningtons Manches Cooper support charities, not-for-profit and social enterprise clients on a broad spectrum of issues. We work for organisations of all shapes and sizes, including many of the country’s largest charities. Our specialists are able to guide them through every phase of development and activity from start-up through to the amalgamation of national charities.
We are known in particular for our high-quality technical knowledge and expertise in governance, compliance, investigations and disputes. We also advise clients on matters relating to the Charity Commission, from applications and orders through to investigations. We have been appointed to the Charity Commission’s interim manager panel, where our specialists help resolve complex regulatory issues.
Our team offers a pragmatic, effective approach combined with a deep commitment to the sector. Working closely with lawyers in a variety of practice areas across the firm, including our employment, litigation, real estate, pensions, defamation, data protection and intellectual property teams, we provide a fully integrated service.
Many of our solicitors are actively involved in the community as charity trustees and school governors. As a group, we are experienced in steering organisations through the practical and legal challenges which arise on a regular basis. We also understand the need to achieve a balance between maximising resources, delivering the very best charitable activities and managing public reputation.
Our clients include both national and international charities, almshouses, Cambridge and Oxford colleges, independent schools , and medical and scientific research charities, as well as faith-based charities and philanthropic foundations.
We are proud members of the Charity Law Association, Charity Finance Group, the Almshouse Association and the Independent Schools Association. Several of our solicitors are acknowledged as specialists in their field by Chambers UK and the Legal 500, including the head of our charities practice, who is recognised as one of the leading charity lawyers nationally.