Legal complexities faced by charities
As a charity, you can find yourself having to deal with a range of issues. Some may involve your direct involvement in litigation, perhaps either as a party affected by a will challenge or by a statutory will application. Difficult decisions need to be made on whether to accept or challenge a claim.
Addressing the challenges
Challenges can arise between trustees of charities who cannot agree on the proper running of a charity, or perhaps more fundamentally when serious questions are asked about the charity’s finances. It is not uncommon for trustees, individuals working within the charity and members, supporters or third parties to disagree with each other, however a serious disagreement could cause problems in the day-to-day management of the charity and potentially have an impact on how the charity is perceived by the public.
The origins of many disputes of this nature can be traced back to the charities internal documents which may be either contradictory or entirely inadequate. Your charity’s governing document may include a ‘disputes clause’ with the relevant procedure for dealing with any dispute. Disputes can escalate quickly and the nature of a charity means that acting without delay is important for the ongoing functioning of a charitable organisation.
Our expert team
We understand that it will be of paramount importance to preserve the relationships that you have established within the charity and externally. Additionally, if your charity is involved in litigation of any sort, you may find that your actions require advice on reputational issues.
Our Charities Team’s extensive knowledge of the way charities operate and the needs of individual organisations, enables us to deliver tailored informative advice in relation to your dispute and provide you with practical, effective ways in which you can resolve the matter as quickly as possible.
