Skip to main content

Talk to us: 0333 004 4488 | hello@brabners.com

Charity Regulatory Concerns & Statutory Inquiries

Our charity lawyers provide access to support and guidance during regulatory concern cases and statutory inquiries.

Talk to us

Amid increasing use of its compliance-related powers, ever more charities are finding themselves subject to statutory inquiries opened by the Charity Commission — a regulator keen to be viewed as robust and effective in its approach to regulating the third sector.

Our experienced and dedicated charity lawyers work closely with such charities — helping them to access the support and guidance they need during stressful times. We provide advice throughout Charity Commission investigations, including regulatory concern cases and statutory inquiries. With specialist knowledge, we guide charity trustees through the complexities of an investigation, respond to lines of enquiry and manage any requests for information. 

We’ve done this successfully for many charities — and crucially, our support doesn’t end with the conclusion of a case or investigation. We also assist trustees to effectively implement the action plans and governance recommendations issued by the Charity Commission to ensure ongoing compliance and long-term peace of mind.

Businesswoman talking on phone in office silhouette

Expert support during critical times

We understand just how tough it can be for a charity to continue operating while cooperating with a regulatory investigation. With our full support, trustees can be assured that their case is being expertly handled by a team that’s committed to achieving the best possible outcome.

As well as assisting charities in their dealings with the Charity Commission, we recognise that many charities are often subject to additional regulation — for example, from Companies House, the Care Quality Commission or Ofsted. We have experience in dealing with a vast number of regulators on behalf of all types of charities. This helps us to recognise the specific requirements of each regulatory body and tailor our advice accordingly.

We also act for a number of exempt charities who aren’t required to register with the Charity Commission — instead being regulated by another principal regulator such as the Office for Students or the Regulator of Social Housing. These charities must still comply with charity law. Our team can provide tailored advice to exempt charities while being considerate of their unique regulatory position.

Meet our team

Graeme hughes

Graeme Hughes

Partner, Head of Charities, Not-for-Profits and Social Enterprises

Imogen Trafford 1

Imogen Trafford

Associate

Ciara Lawlor

Ciara Lawlor

Graduate Solicitor Apprentice

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

Charity regulatory concern and statutory inquiry FAQs

Trusted by

Autism Initiatives Logo
Everton in the Community
National football museum logo AC990 BA4 C4 seeklogo com
About Brabners

Brabners is a purpose-led independent law firm. 

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.

True North Black Logo

Northern Ambition

The collaborative network for purpose-led businesses. We’re building a more sustainable and innovative tomorrow.

Certified B Corporation B Corp Logo 2022 Black RGB svg

Sustainable Business

In 2022, we proudly became the UK’s largest law firm (and the first outside London) to become B Corp certified.

Brabners Foundation Logo Black

Community Impact

We channel the energy of our public-spirited people and clients towards improving our local communities.

Read more about charity law

Talk to us

Loading form...