Charity Law

"Breadth of expertise across the spectrum of activity that charities operate. Edward Porter is erudite, personable and superb at simplifying complex issues."

Legal 500 2024

"Andrew White has a clear and insightful approach, combining excellent knowledge with strong soft skills."

Legal 500 2024

"Very knowledgeable and extremely helpful."

Legal 500 2022

"Excellent charities know-how across a range of disciplines, in particular trusts, private client and property."

Legal 500 2022

Michelmores has worked closely with charities and other non-commercial organisations for many years, providing expert legal advice. Our Charity Law solicitors have particular knowledge of advising educational and church-related charities.

As well as acting for large organisations and institutions, we also act for smaller and newly-formed charities, offering pragmatic and cost-effective support as they develop.

Recent experience

Acting on various lease acquisitions and renewals. For example we acted in the acquisition of a 6 year lease of a shop unit in a seaside town on behalf of a local charity. Negotiations focussed on the ability to trade on the street and not to expose the charity to maintenance costs of a building with potentially high dilapidations.

Acting in general litigation matters as well as legacy disputes. Tony Cockayne has a reputation for excellence in legacy disputes and regularly presents seminars both to charity clients and legal professionals.

Acting on providing charity structure advice to a high profile and wealthy philanthropist who was keen to support a well-known London theatre company. This advice included an analysis of the public benefit requirement in the context of the charity’s proposed activities, which are intended to have an emphasis on a particular group only.

Instructions to advise a museum on its new £multi-million project to create a purpose-built museum and archive.

Continuing as sole solicitors for the Diocese of Exeter and the main solicitor for the Diocese of Truro. Two of the firm’s partners hold the positions of Diocesan Registrar and Deputy Registrar respectively, for both Dioceses.

Receiving multiple instructions from charities wishing to dispose of excess land, and understanding the dichotomy between complicated issues and charity cost constraints. We also act for numerous social landlords in £multi-million transactions.

KEY CONTACTS
Tony Cockayne
Tony Cockayne
Partner
TEAM
Edward Porter
Edward Porter
Partner
Andrew White
Andrew White
Trust Director
Victoria Miller
Victoria Miller
Associate