Ashfords LLP fields an active charity legacy disputes team. It acts for a large number of third-sector organisations, including some national charities. The group has particular strength in advising on estate administration, and in providing valuable reputational guidance to its clients. Key members of the practice include Michael AldenJohn Toth, and Robert Horsey. Kerry Morgan-Gould is another significant figure who continues to represent various national household name charities, and a number of smaller local charities, on complex and high-value cases.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Unparalleled knowledge, excellent support across a broad range of charity law needs and responsive service at every stage. The development of individual case reviews have been incredibly supportive for internal reporting and decision making.’

  • ‘Kerry Morgan-Gould provides exceptional advice and guidance. Her knowledge and experience provide outstanding levels of assurance for our staff and trustees.’

  • ‘A brilliant team with the full range of abilities and expertise, and united in focusing on solutions for their clients. John Toth has huge experience and wisdom gained from it.'

  • 'Kerry Morgan-Gould is the consummate professional, clear and reassuring to her clients, and firm but courteous to the opposition. She will not overheat the dispute unnecessarily, but dials down the rhetoric and antagonism.'

  • 'Robert Horsey is immensely reliable with an understandably devoted client following. Barny Croft has gained the respect of peers and clients alike with his calm and measured approach to problems.’

  • ‘Barny Croft is charming, conscientious and an absolute pleasure to work with. A man of huge integrity and talent.’

  • ‘Our charity's legacy administration team uses Ashfords, as they are good and reasonably priced. Kerry Morgan-Gould always tries to save costs when she can.’

  • ‘A brilliant charities team based in the South West. Kerry Morgan-Gould is a leader in this field and is first rate.’

Key clients

  • Age UK Hertfordshire
  • The Royal Parks Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising a charity on the proposed sale of some land owned by the charity for a substantial sum of money (approximately £20m).
  • Advised a charity on the London New Year's Eve Celebrations for 2023/2024.
  • Advising a client on the actions of the executors, the interpretation of a Will and subsequent tax position, with the aim of protecting the clients’ entitlement under the deceased’s Will.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Michael Alden, Kerry Morgan-Gould, John Toth, Robert Horsey

Other key lawyers

Barny Croft