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People often overlook the complexity of law surrounding the operation and management of charities. It is not only the charity, but the trustees and individuals behind it, that are bound by a number of extensive duties. The Charity Commission is becoming increasingly keen to take action where these obligations are not being complied with.
Acting on behalf of charities is a specialist area and Laceys offer a full range of services to charities and non profit making organisations, to help guide you from creation through to expansion and development.
We can oversee the formation and registration of charitable trusts, companies and organisations as well as any restructures or mergers, helping to ensure that the structure selected is the most suitable.
We can advise not for profit bodies on the appointment of trustees and explain their duties, both in the day to day running of the charity and in light of certain events or circumstances, such as changes in charities legislation or best practice.
We are also able to assist with the drafting, reviewing and updating of not for profits’ constitutions (the charity’s “rule book”), dictating how it can act and setting out the rights and obligations of its trustees and members. We can help to ensure not only that this document is compliant with charity legislation, but can be adhered to from a practical level from one day to the next.
In addition, we appreciate the fact that fundraising is often the lifeblood of a charity, and are able to guide charities through the complexities or marketing and fundraising law. By setting out their obligations and reviewing their policies, terms and practices, we help to ensure that our clients are following best practice.
For any further advice on charity issues please contact one of our team today to see how we can help.
Direct dial: 01202 377884
“First Class Service. ....Sam and Victoria were an absolute pleasure to work with whilst expertly guiding us through the pitfalls of the merger.”
“We would like to thank Victoria and the rest of the team at Laceys for helping us in a very professional, efficient and courteous manner complete the acquisition of the Cottage Lodge Hotel in Brockenhurst.”
“I was pleased to work with Sam and Victoria who managed to simplify this matter for us, and explain the intricacies of the transaction at each stage and advise us accordingly. They provided great flexibility in working with us both and guiding us through this whole transaction. Many thanks.”
“Only fools make big, long term decisions without gaining sound advice and I am so glad to have been able to share my big burden with such understanding and competent professionals as Victoria. Although I had some end objectives I could never have worked out the best way there without their help.”
“Very good service, plenty of off-road parking, made our life easy and helped us sort out a difficult situation and explained it to us in layman's terms.”
“An extremely efficient firm of Solicitors, who have dealt with my family legal needs as required for at least 20 years, even though I have moved to Australia after living in Dorset all my life.”
Victoria is a Partner in our Corporate and Commercial team, having qualified as a Solicitor in 2016. Victoria has advised businesses, charities and individuals across a range of sectors, specialising in corporate acquisitions and associated finance and commercial contracts.
Victoria adopts a pro-active, straight-forward approach in helping clients achieve their long-term business aims.
Outside of work Victoria makes the most of living on the South Coast with long walks in the New Forest and paddle boarding in Sandbanks.
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Direct dial: 01202 377824
Edwina has returned to Laceys after working for Womble Bond Dickinson in Southampton and is a Senior Associate within our Corporate and Commercial team. Edwina specialises in commercial contracts, intellectual property and charity law and has experience in drafting, negotiating and advising on a variety of agreements. Since qualifying in 2011, she has advised a range of businesses in various sectors. This includes a secondment working in-house for a well-known multi-national retailer.
Edwina has been listed in the Legal 500 as having an “incredible knowledge and a drive to do things right’. She enjoys getting to know a client’s business in order that she can provide tailored, practical advice.
Outside of work Edwina enjoys practising yoga, walking her energetic Labrador in the beautiful Dorset countryside and generally keeping active as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.
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Direct dial: 01202 377878
“First Class Service. ....Sam and Victoria were an absolute pleasure to work with whilst expertly guiding us through the pitfalls of the merger. I would highly recommend anyone considering an acquisition or merger to speak with Sam.”
“Thoroughly professional and helpful advice at all times.”
“I launched POW Energy Water with 15 years experience in food and drink, but no experience in the legalities of setting up and structuring a business. Sam and his team have been fantastic helping me secure finance and trademarks, ensuring I am safe in the knowledge that my back is covered so I can concentrate on growing by business.”
“Sam Freeman is an excellent solicitor who is extremely knowledgeable and who shows great patience and kindness when dealing with someone who is unfamiliar with legal matters.”
“Straight forward and easy to work with and very helpful.”
“Sam is very good at understanding what we need, even if we aren't that clear. He keeps us up to date and gives clear concise advice when needed.”
Sam Freeman heads up our Corporate and Commercial team. He is a vastly experienced corporate lawyer having advised a wide variety of businesses within a range of sectors, for a number of years, having qualified as a Solicitor in 2005.
Sam’s particular specialisms include share and assets acquisitions and disposals, company restructures, shareholder agreements and partnerships. Sam enjoys helping people succeed in business regardless of whether the client is a small local set up or a large national organisation. Whatever the concern, Sam provides a calm personable approach to his work ensuring clients are guided in a practical straightforward manner.
Away from work Sam enjoys spending time with his family and this years new edition, Merlin the Great Dane, and anything sport related, especially playing golf.
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