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Lawson Lewis is able to offer expertise in all aspects of charity law from advice as to the best way to form a charity to assisting with all aspects of charity business such as land transactions, employment issues and so on.
Charities enjoy a special status. They receive tax advantages and in exchange (save in the case of charities with an income of under £5,000.00 per annum) accept regulation by the Charity Commission.
Charity formation
A charity should:-
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Fulfil a recognised charitable purpose – such as promoting education, religious objectives or another public benefit such as medical, social or animal welfare.
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Have an appropriate constitution. There are a number of ways in which a charity may be formed including by way of Trust, Limited Company or from (probably) October 2009 onwards by a new legal entity known as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. |
We are able to advise you which approach will best suit your needs.
Charity Governance
Each charity will have governing officers. The title of these will depend upon the vehicle by which the charity has been formed (for example Trustee of a Trust, Director or a company etc). These posts are often undertaken on an unpaid basis by well intentioned volunteers. Failure to ensure compliance can lead to Trustees facing personal liability. The responsibilities are onerous and include:-
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Ensuring that the charity complies with all of its legal obligations – including the requirements of charity law.
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Ensuring that the charity is run in accordance with its constitution and that its affairs are managed prudently – for example that the charity assets are safeguarded.
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Ensuring that the charity exercises the required diligence and duty of care in the performance of its activities - for example making sure that risk assessments are carried out in relation to health and safety, maintenance of financial scrutiny and so on.
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Ensuring that the charity files annual accounts and a report with the Charity Commission. It is possible for Trustees to face personal liability for breach of these obligations. We would suggest:- |
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Make sure you clearly understand the charity and its activities before you accept appointment as a Trustee – read the Charity’s accounts, its constitutional documents and understand the charity’s activities. If you are not experienced in these matters consider undertaking some training – so that you are properly able to scrutinise accounts and understand your responsibilities. |
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Ensure that the charity takes independent professional advice on all major issues, such as health and safety, employment, accounting methods and compliance with regulatory requirements. |
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Consider insuring against personal liability. This can often be funded by the charity. |
We can advise charities or Trustees on all legal and regulatory issues arising under charity law.
We are able to offer specialist advice.
Call 01323 502963 now for a consultation with a specialist Solicitor or a Lawyer at Lawson Lewis & Co.
Please contact:
Margaret Gardner (Hampden Park) (01323) 502963 - E-mail
Lawson Lewis & Co Solicitors Eastbourne, East Sussex
Lawson Lewis & Co Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority.
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