Charity Law

From established and well-known charities to community groups and new social enterprises, we offer comprehensive support on all aspects of setting up and running a charity. We are highly regarded across the third sector for our skills and knowledge in areas such as funding, consolidation, mergers and partnership working.


We have an experienced, multi-disciplinary team with many years of experience, providing a tailored service to our clients’ needs. Whether you are a service provider, campaigning organisation or grant-making foundation, we can help you achieve your goals.


Our solicitors regularly advise:


Individuals who wish to set up a charity

  • Trustees and senior managers responsible for running charities
  • Educational institutions
  • Trustees looking for advice on fulfilling their obligations
  • We can offer guidance on a diverse range of legal matters, including:
  • Setting up a charity
  • Governance
  • Operational advice
  • Constitutional issues
  • Complying with existing and upcoming legislation
  • Complying with the Charities and Trustee Investment Act (Scotland) 2005
  • Assistance in dealing with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator
  • Banking and grant funding
  • Employment law
  • Commercial property law
  • Dispute resolution
  • Restructuring
  • Setting up subsidiaries
  • Trust law


Our work in this area extends to supporting social care providers to manage the delivery of care contracts and employment issues and complying with working time regulations. We appreciate the problems faced by charities and understand the legislative challenges that must be contended with. In support of your objectives, we can provide reliable, sector-specific advice whatever your requirements.



Setting Up a Charity


There will be a lot to consider if you are considering setting up a new charity. We can support you to consider:


  • The pros and cons of setting up as a charity
  • The best legal structure for your charity
  • Who will act as trustees – we can also advise on trustees’ duties
  • What the charity’s governing documents will look like – these should cover the charity’s objectives and how decisions will be made
  • What activities the charity will carry out



Charity Governance


Charities must have an up-to-date constitution and governance policies to allow trustees to manage the charity effectively. We will work to ensure that all documents are clear and flexible, reflecting best practice.


We can carry out a bespoke governance review and help you implement change, as well as advising on whether or not to incorporate if your charity is currently unincorporated.

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