Charities and not-for-profit

Withers LLP

Client Satisfaction

The ‘attentive’ Chris Priestley heads a ’very experienced’ team at Withers LLP, which is lauded for its ‘pragmatic support and advice across a wide range of issues’. The practice acts for many of the largest operating charities in the country, and is a leading firm nationwide in advising NHS charities. Another key strength is its considerable expertise in strategy and governance matters, and it frequently engages at a senior level with the Charity Commission. Given its international reach, it is regularly instructed on charity matters spanning multiple jurisdictions. Philip Reed advises charities, not-for-profits, and philanthropists on a wide range of charity law matters, with a particular specialism in the education and arts sector. Alison Paines is vastly experienced in advising charities and other non-profit bodies, and those who contract with or donate to them. Roger Waite, who was promoted to the partnership in July 2024, works with all types of charities, foundations, and non-profits on an array of charity law, governance, fundraising, and regulatory matters. Amy Carter and Emma Flower are both well-regarded.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The standout partner here is Chris Priestley. We often describe him as our 'phone a friend' in times of need! He goes the extra mile to fully understand the needs of his clients and to provide practical advice and solutions to complex problems.'
'A stand-out associate is Amy Carter. Amy is very diligent and highly organised and is able to deliver at the highest level. She is very approachable and attentive.’
‘The team bring together a range of disciplines, all of high calibre, that means we have excellent advice on tap across the range of issues with which we are concerned. The pragmatic but authoritative approach of the team is reassuring and instils confidence.'
'Philip Reed is just great! He can always be relied upon to provide sound advice, quickly and sensitively. He is always willing to be available as a sounding board, to help check understandings and to flag up issues that need greater attention. His advice has always been excellent.'
‘We have enjoyed working with Hugo Walford and Alison Paines and found their advice very helpful.’
‘Chris Priestley has fantastic knowledge of the voluntary sector. Hugh More has great knowledge in employment law and is brilliant at translating this into pragmatic solutions which work for people and the organisation.’
‘The unique experience of very complex legacy and probate cases involving charities is notable. The innovation includes the global team who can operate on global charity estates, whilst advising on charity law specific to each country.’
‘The standout lawyer is Alison Paines, who is simply excellent. Philip Reed, Hugo Walford and Roger Waite are also very good.’

Key clients

British Refugee Council
Omaze
NHS Charities Together
Cancer Research UK
British Red Cross Society
Castle Howard
Tate
RSPCA
NCVO
NHS Charities Together

Work highlights

Supporting NHS Charities Together with the work flowing from its £150m Covid appeal and supporting on a range of fundraising, charity law, and NHS issues.
Advised Omaze on its ground-breaking fundraising partnerships with a range of UK charities which have raised £34m for good causes.

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