Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in United Kingdom

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Summerfield Browne Solicitors
Leicester, United Kingdom

Founded in 2014
9 people in their team
English
Summerfield Browne Solicitors are commercial and private client solicitors authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. SRA number 598802. We are a modern and progressive law firm, and operate a new legal services business model, which significantly reduces our overheads, and...
AMD Solicitors
Bristol, United Kingdom

Founded in 1953
50 people in their team
English
Why us?At AMD we understand that your needs for legal advice and support change throughout your lifetime. Practical legal advice from professionals who have taken the time and trouble to get to know you can be invaluable.Our Core Values underpin the Services we can provide.SpecialisationAs a result...
Henriques Griffiths LLP - Bristol
Bristol, United Kingdom

Founded in 1973
50 people in their team
English
About UsHenriques Griffiths was established in Bristol in 1973. Today, we have two offices that service business and individual clients across England and Wales.We like tradition; and we like new. Our firm has grown because of a reputation founded on many years of working within our local and wider...
Blair Cadell Solicitors
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Founded in 1980
50 people in their team
English
Edinburgh solicitors and estate agentsBlair Cadell is a leading firm of Edinburgh solicitors and estate agents. We offer a wide range of property, business, tax and personal legal services, so whether you want help selling your home, making a will, or anything in between, we can help.Our clients...
Dalir Law Firm
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2017
5 people in their team
English
French
DALIR is an international law firm authorised by the UK Solicitors Regulation Authority. The firm was founded by Dr Irena Dajkovic. She and her team have a combination of more than 20 years of private practice and in-house experience in commercial, corporate and regulatory laws. The firm's...
Blacks Solicitors LLP
Leeds, United Kingdom

Founded in 1989
200 people in their team
English
About usBlacks Solicitors provide a wide range of legal advice to commercial and private clients across Yorkshire and throughout the UK. We continue to go from strength to strength with 27 partners and around 180 staff operating from our Head Office based in Leeds.At Blacks we like to do things...
L E Law Solicitors
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
English
About UsWhy are we different?We always make the need for excellent, yet affordable, service to our clients our priority.We pride ourselves on being flexible wherever possible to help our clients. For example we offerAppointments in the home, hospital or workplaceCommunication by letter, fax, email,...
Kuits Solicitors
Manchester, United Kingdom

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
Kuits is a leading, UK200-listed commercial law firm based in Manchester city centre.We provide trusted legal and commercial advice to businesses, their owners and high-net-worth individuals, promoting the growth and success of the North West.Ranked highly in both Chambers UK and Legal 500, clients...
Levi Solicitors LLP
Leeds, United Kingdom

Founded in 1934
200 people in their team
English
About UsLevi Solicitors was founded in 1934 by Jack Levi with the aim of representing ordinary, working people. While times have since changed, our aims have not.Why Choose Us?Levi Solicitors was founded in 1934 by Jack Levi with the aim of representing ordinary, working people....
Manara Law

Manara Law

1 hour Free Consultation
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2023
3 people in their team
English
Arabic
WHO WE AREManara Law is an international Libyan law practice. We provide comprehensive legal services on both contentious and non-contentious matters. With our deep expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence, we deliver unparalleled solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each...
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Browse nonprofit & charitable organizations law firms by city in United Kingdom

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About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in United Kingdom

Nonprofit and charitable organizations in the United Kingdom operate within a distinct legal framework designed to promote public benefit and support volunteer-driven activities. Nonprofit entities can include a range of structures such as charities, social enterprises, and community interest companies, each with its own legal requirements and governance standards. Charities, in particular, must be established for one or more charitable purposes defined by law and provide a public benefit. The sector is regulated by the Charity Commission for England and Wales, the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR), and the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, depending on the region of operation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal guidance can be crucial for nonprofit and charitable organizations at various stages, including:

  • Formation: Determining the most suitable legal structure and registering your organization.
  • Governance: Crafting constitutions or articles of association and addressing governance issues.
  • Compliance: Ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements, tax obligations, and charitable laws.
  • Disputes: Mediation and resolution of conflicts within the organization or with external bodies.
  • Contracts: Drafting and reviewing contracts regarding fundraising, services, or employment.

Local Laws Overview

Laws relevant to nonprofit and charitable organizations in the UK include:

  • Charities Act 2011: This is the primary piece of legislation governing UK charities, outlining registration requirements, legal definition of a charity, board responsibilities, and financial reporting standards.
  • Companies Act 2006: For nonprofits registered as companies, providing governance frameworks and director duties.
  • Community Interest Company Regulations: Specific to CICs, these regulations help determine how assets and profits must be used for community benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a charity and a nonprofit?

A charity is a specific type of nonprofit organization that must be registered and operate for public benefit, focusing on charitable purposes as defined by law. A nonprofit may serve diverse missions and does not have to register if it doesn't qualify as a charity.

How do I register a charity in the UK?

To register a charity, submit an application to the appropriate regulatory body (e.g., Charity Commission for England and Wales, OSCR in Scotland), including documentation on your organization's purposes and governing documents.

Do nonprofits pay taxes in the UK?

Charities are generally exempt from certain taxes, but they must register for tax purposes to claim these exemptions and comply with requirements, such as Gift Aid on donations.

What activities are considered 'charitable'?

Charitable purposes include alleviating poverty, advancing education, religion, health, environment protection, animal welfare, among others, as defined by charity law.

Can a nonprofit convert to a charity?

Yes, if a nonprofit organization meets the requirements for charitable purposes and public benefit, it can register as a charity.

Who regulates charities in the UK?

Charities are regulated by the Charity Commission for England and Wales, OSCR in Scotland, and the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.

What governance structures do charities need?

Charities need a board of trustees responsible for ensuring compliance with charitable objectives, financial stability, and proper management.

Can a charity engage in political activities?

Charities can engage in political activities as long as they are incidental to their charitable objectives and not the principal aim.

What is a Community Interest Company (CIC)?

A CIC is a type of limited company designed for community benefit, providing social enterprise advantages and asset locks to ensure surplus funds are reinvested in the community.

How can a charity dissolve if necessary?

Charities can be closed voluntarily through formal procedures, including notifying the Charity Commission and settling liabilities.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to:

  • Charity Commission for England and Wales: Provides extensive guidance on charity regulations and registration.
  • The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO): Offers resources and advice for voluntary sector organizations.
  • Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR): Governs and supports charities in Scotland.
  • Gov.UK: The official government portal for charity and social enterprise information.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance in the area of nonprofit and charitable organizations, consider these steps:

  1. Assess Your Needs: Clearly define the legal challenges or questions you face.
  2. Consult an Expert: Seek out lawyers or advisors specializing in nonprofit law. This may include voluntary sector legal advisors or firms with dedicated charity law departments.
  3. Prepare Documentation: Gather all relevant documents, such as your organization’s governing documents, financial records, and correspondence with regulatory bodies, to facilitate a comprehensive legal review.
  4. Engage Services: Retain a legal professional to represent your organization’s interests, ensuring compliance and addressing legal challenges proactively.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in United Kingdom through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in United Kingdom - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.