Withers LLP fields an ‘extremely competent and knowledgeable’ team, which is ‘very customer-centric and approachable’. The practice advises many of the largest operating charities in the country on a wide range of legal and regulatory matters, with key clients including NHS charities and philanthropists. The group garners praise for its ‘breadth of talent’ under the skilful leadership of Chris Priestley, who has a wealth of experience in advising charities and social enterprises on their operations and projects. Alison Paines has particular expertise in advising on board strategy, structuring and governance matters for national and international clients. Paul Hewitt plays a pivotal role in the charity legacies team, while Philip Reed advises charities, not-for-profits and philanthropists on a wide range of issues, and Amy Carter works with all types of charities. Emma Flower and Roger Waite are also recommended, and Tom Hughes is a key member of the firm’s charity property team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Roger Waite is incredibly knowledgeable and very generous with his insight and experience. No question is considered trivial and we feel we get great value for money when we seek advice or input into our programme.’
- ‘Roger Waite and his team, particularly Emma Flower, are always quick to respond, and provide high quality, friendly, commercially astute and pragmatic advice.'
- ‘Roger Waite and Emma Flower are stand out lawyers in the team, who you can always rely upon to provide the advice required/friendly voice at the end of the phone when needed.’
- ‘Philip Reed -who I've found to be excellent. Very knowledgeable and approachable, and also pragmatic. Not all legal questions are simply yes or no, and it's been extremely helpful to get a view that a layman can understand while exploring the pros and cons of different options and associated risks etc.’
- ‘Roger Waite is outstanding. His advice is consistently thoughtful, well-judged and tailored to our specific needs. He is excellent at navigating both legal and stakeholder sensitivities with care. His understanding of the charity and not-for-profit sector is second to none.'
- ‘Withers has a highly competent and professional charities team. The output is of high quality and exceeds expected service standards. The advice is tailored for our business needs. Chris Priestley has given us consistent, high-quality advice and has resolved matters that align with our strategic objectives.’
Key clients
- British Refugee Council
- Omaze
- NHS Charities Together
- British Red Cross
- Tate Foundation
- RSPCA
- NCVO
- Cancer Research UK
- Guy's and St Thomas' Foundation
- Plan International UK
- The Royal British Legion
- SSAFA
Work highlights
Advising Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity on the funding of the new children's cancer centre at Great Ormond Street.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Chris Priestley
Other key lawyers
Alison Paines; Philip Reed; Amy Carter; Emma Flower; Tom Hughes; Roger Waite; Paul Hewitt