Our charity lawyers explore the Charity Commission's inquiry into EVF following the collapse of FTX Trading and share three key governance lessons for charities.
Read moreCharities, Not-For-Profits & Social Enterprises
Genuine specialists providing expert legal support to third sector organisations in achieving their charitable and social objectives.
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The voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector is a vital and dynamic part of the UK, playing a crucial role in both the economy and society by delivering services, supporting communities and fostering social cohesion.
Hundreds of thousands of charities, not for profits and social enterprises contribute billions to the economy, employ millions of people and have increasingly stepped up to provide services upon which communities rely, despite sustained funding cuts, culture wars and regulatory pressures.
The law as it relates to charities and other third sector organisations is complex. Charity law was first formalised in the Statute of Charitable Uses — also known as the Charitable Uses Act 1601 or the Statute of Elizabeth. Since the turn of the century, we’ve seen four Charities Acts, significant changes in company law and regulatory developments in response to controversies that have at times badly undermined public trust and confidence in a sector that’s dependent on its reputation and goodwill.
Charities, not for profits and social enterprises need genuine specialist legal advisers who understand the issues they face and the regulatory environment in which they operate. A partner with the skills and expertise to support those seeking to improve people’s lives. As a purpose-led, independent business and certified B Corp, we share your values and deeply appreciate your role in society.
True charity law expertise
Our specialist charities, not for profit and social enterprise team is recognised by The Legal 500 as the leading team of experts in the North West, with a national reputation for providing accurate, pragmatic and commercially focused advice.
The team is spearheaded by ‘Leading Individual’ and experienced charity lawyer Graeme Hughes, who has practised exclusively in charity law since qualifying in 2010. He’s supported by “outstanding” charity lawyer Imogen Trafford, who advises on an extensive range of issues including matters involving the Charity Commission.
All members of our team are individually recognised as leaders in their field and draw on the experience they’ve gained in acting exclusively for VCSE organisations of all shapes and sizes, as well as (in some cases) experience from legal and regulatory roles at the Charity Commission.
Working with us
Our friendly and approachable team is always available to clients. We have many valued and longstanding relationships with charities of all sizes that operate both domestically and overseas.
This includes museums, research organisations, grant-making foundations, religious organisations, social and healthcare providers, educational institutions, registered providers of social housing, youth and community centres and sports organisations (including charities associated with professional sports clubs).
Backed-up by the extensive capabilities of a full-service law firm, our team can advise on your every legal need including property matters, employment issues, contracts, intellectual property and litigation.
Meet our team
“Brabners has real expertise in charities and dealing with the Charity Commission. This is quite rare to find. Establishing a charitable publisher is hard, because there isn’t a clear line between what is charitable and what isn’t. Brabners did this successfully. Its fees are affordable by the sector.”
Client feedback, The Legal 500, 2024
“Graeme Hughes competently advises on charity law, governance and regulatory issues, as well as overseeing matters requiring insights from his corporate, property and employment colleagues.”
The Legal 500, 2024
“We have valued the long-term relationship with [Brabners]… [its] understanding of our company structure — and the market, regulation and jurisdiction in which we operate — supports the delivery of exceptional advice. Graeme Hughes and Imogen Trafford provide outstanding support around charity law.”
Client feedback, The Legal 500, 2024
“[Brabners] is interested in knowing your business and understanding the culture and nature of what you do. This leads to bespoke solutions… not simply ‘off the shelf’ advice that you may get from any firm.”
Client feedback, The Legal 500, 2024
“Ex-Charity Commission lawyer and Charity Tribunal Judge Stephen Claus continues to influence departmental and client decisions through his role as a consultant.”
The Legal 500, 2024
“The ‘outstanding’ Imogen Trafford is highly active on mandates concerning the registering, merging and dissolving of charities.”
The Legal 500, 2024
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Our independence allows us to be objective, principled and provide a service with heart and character.
We’re on a mission to make the difference for our clients, people and communities. Proudly anchored in the North since 1815, we serve all of England and Wales.
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