Faith-based Organisations

Faith-based organisations and communities face a huge array of legal and practical challenges from complex charity law, funding and governance matters and planning for large property and construction projects, through to compliance with employment regulations and putting in place effective safeguarding policies.

While on many levels the legal demands on religious organisations can be similar to those faced by other not-for-profit entities, the interplay of faith and the law means yours is a unique environment for everyone involved: leaders of organisations, employees and volunteers, funders and benefactors, congregations, students, those you care for and the range of advisers with whom you interact.

We have the expertise to deal with the full range of legal issues facing faith-based organisations, as well as knowledge and experience gained over many decades which enable us to approach our work with you with a true sensitivity to your purpose. Religious organisations value our ethical outlook, our collaborative approach on small and large projects and our responsive style.

Our faith-based clients and service offering

• We work with religious organisations including churches, religious orders, schools, care homes and religious charities. We are recognised as one of the top legal advisers for the charity sector, and our specialist teams are highly knowledgeable on all aspects of charity law as it affects religious organisations, including charitable status, trustees’ duties, endowed funds, tax, governance and constitutional issues.
• We are equally well known for our expertise in education law, and regularly offer advice on issues from disciplinary action to parental complaints.
• We are well placed to advise across the spectrum of your needs, from governance, employment, property planning and construction, to helping you protect your intellectual property and on all commercial activities including sponsorship, fundraising, venue hire and outsourcing.
• We also work closely with churches and religious organisations on dispute resolution and litigation, reputation management and crisis communication planning, and provide comprehensive advice on the law and best practice with regard to safeguarding.