‘Their knowledge within the charities and not-for-profit sector is excellent’, say clients of Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP. Through its eight regional offices, it is well-placed to support charities nationally, and is ’immersed in this sector’. The practice heads are London-based Jo Coleman and Emma Moody, who is based at the firm's Newcastle office. Coleman has an impressive track record of dealing with all aspects of charity law and governance, and she is particularly well-versed in advising membership organisations on complex charity mergers. She also has extensive experience in establishing new charitable organisations, as well as assisting existing national household names with new projects, and on risk management issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Team at Womble Bond Dickinson are able to react quickly and efficiently to urgent situations. They are able to take control and effectively manage requirements and collaborate with other organisations.'
‘Jo Coleman was extremely knowledgeable and efficient. We knew instantly that she would be able to see through a difficult situation and gave us huge reassurance. Her knowledge of the charity sector is exceptional.'
‘The charity team continue to offer excellent service. They really understand the way that charities operate. . They provide pragmatic, useful insight to resolve problems. They go the extra mile to ensure that they work collaboratively with us.'
‘Jo Coleman particularly stands out. She provides really savvy support, makes the effort to fully understand our organisation, what really matters to us and how we operate more widely.'
'Jo Coleman has deep practical expertise in the working of charities. She understands not just our legal concerns but also the way we work and goes to great effort to ensure that the people from WBD who work with us really match the way in which we work internally.'
‘Broad skill range across friendly and approachable professionals. Emma Moody is very knowledgeable and helpful. She is superb at listening to our needs and concerns and provides advice that is nuanced and helpful.’
‘The team have extensive knowledge of governance for the charity sector and are able to offer practical and pragmatic advice.’
‘Jo Coleman is an expert in her field and always willing to solve the issues that arise.’
Key clients
- BBC Children in Need
- National Trust
- Royal Academy of Engineering
- Dogs Trust
- Mental Health Matters
- Everyturn
- Archbishops' Council
- Absolute Return for Kids
- York Diocesan Board of Finance
- National Energy Action
- St Monica Trust
- Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul
- RNLI
- Church of England Central Services
- Academy of Medical Sciences
- Humankind Charity
- NCFE
- United Synagogue
- Norwood
- Nightingale Hammerson
Work highlights
- Advised the Dogs Trust on its merger with the Worldwide Veterinary Service and Mission Rabies, two charities working internationally who undertake a significant amount of work with dogs and deliver their work through a considerable number of related overseas entities.
- Appointed as the Interim Manager of the Islamic Centre of England by the Charity Commission following its serious regulatory concerns raised about the governance of the charity.
- Advising Daughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul on ensuring that its new structure is suitable for the long-term future of the order.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Jo Coleman, Emma Moody