Praised for providing a ‘very personal service’, the dynamic team at Lee Bolton Monier-Williams advises a diverse range of clients from churches and schools to housing associations, social enterprises, international aid organisations and art and cultural organisations. Led by Howard Dellar, it continues to advise a variety of clients from various Christian denominations, the Muslim community and secular organisations. Khalid Sofi plays a significant role in advising charities that are linked with Muslim, Sikh, Hindu and Buddhist communities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘We have worked very closely with Khalid Sofi. We value his attention-to-detail and willingness to help us grow and develop as an organisation. He is responsive and open to any and all queries we have'.
‘The particular expertise LBM-W offers in ecclesiastical law is exceptional. The team works together to provide guidance and advice at every level for our organisation. We work with a specialist team headed by Ian Blaney, supported by colleagues with areas of expertise and availability - Howard Dellar, Susan Newell and Ed Henderson'.
‘Khalid Sofi - has unparalleled knowledge of the charity sector (and especially the faith segment therein) and interactions with the Regulators. Khalid's depth of knowledge and nuanced understanding of the regulatory landscape are acknowledged as an asset by faith sector charities'.
‘We have recommended Khalid Sofi to clients and he has always acted extremely professionally and knowledgeable in respect of Charity Law. He also provides the clients with commercial and pragmatic advice which is excellent.’
‘As a charity with varied needs over time, we have always felt very well served by the appropriate solicitors in this firm. We have good confidence that LBMW know what the Charity Commission's attitude is likely to be in issues where this is relevant.’
‘We had a complex business transfer requiring sensitive and expert handling of the legal documentation and Susan Newell was expert in her handling of this task: always expert, confident, quick to respond, and understanding the importance of the human factor in reaching a good agreement with the other partner'.
‘We have found that the knowledge that the practice has on Islam and Mosque related issues to be very useful to us. Khalid Sofi has been effective in helping us move our existing charity to a CIO, and would definitely work with him again on future projects'.
‘Khalid Sofi is a remarkable and knowledgeable lawyer who is able to explain difficult technical terminology in simple and straightforward English. It really breaks down the barriers and makes each conversation with him insightful'.
Key clients
- Restless Development
- Al-Khair Foundation
- Hamilton Trust
- Muslim charity -Helping the Needy
- MAB charitable Trust
- Action for Humanity
- Havering Islamic Cultural Centre
- Southgate Mosque and Community Centre
- The Anjuman-e-islahul-al-muslimeen of UK
- Islamic Help
- West London Synagogue
- East London Mosque Trust
- Sandgate Heritage Trust
- The Bishop of Derby and Derby Diocesan Board of Finance
Work highlights
- Advised Southgate Mosque and Community Centre, a new charity, on the proposed structure for the charity, prepared the governing document and registered with Charity Commission.
- Assisted Restless Development with amending its articles of association and passing the necessary resolutions to effect such changes.
- Advised on the merger between Sandgate Society and Sandgate Heritage Trust Ltd. This resulted in the formation of a new Charitable Incorporation Organisation known as the Sandgate Society.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Howard Dellar