Charity & Philanthropy

Supporting charities, philanthropists and not-for-profit organisations with clear, practical legal advice that helps them achieve their purpose and create lasting impact.

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At DTM Legal, we excel in providing both contentious and non-contentious legal support for the charity sector. Our comprehensive understanding enables us to collaborate closely with charities and not-for-profit organisations, ensuring we can act as their trusted partner across a wide range of legal services. We pride ourselves on delivering advice that aligns with our client’s best interests.

Our multi-disciplinary team possesses extensive knowledge to assist you on a wide range of organisational complexities, including establishing Charitable Trusts, charitable and not-for-profit organisations and companies, advising on policies, offering commercial contractual guidance, or managing property acquisitions.

We represent a diverse range of clients, including health and social care organisations, educational institutions, charitable companies, trusts, private individuals, unincorporated charitable associations, not-for-profit organisations, and community interest companies.

Charity and Non-Profit Legal Services

Our Charity & Philanthropy solicitors advise on:

  • Setting up a non-profit organisation
  • Governance
  • Policy Preparation and Operational Support
  • Bequests and Legacies
  • Property
  • Commercial Advice
  • Collaboration
  • Dispute Resolution
  • Debt Recovery
  • Restructuring and Reorganisation
  • Insolvency and Dissolution
Alison Brennan, Head of Compliance and Service Delivery Photographed outside DTM Legal in Liverpool

Head of Compliance and Service Delivery

Alison Brennan

Head of Compliance and Service Delivery

Alison Brennan

Alison Thomas is a Partner in DTM Legal’s Corporate & Commercial team, Head of the Charities & Philanthropy team and the firm’s Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP). She advises businesses, charities and not-for-profit organisations on corporate transactions, restructures, governance and commercial matters, with particular expertise in mergers and acquisitions, finance and charity law.

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Cheshire Connect
Our initial key contact has been such a pleasure to work with, Alison Brennan. Alison always responds to email requests promptly and, wherever possible, will offer to help either directly, if the skills request is within her area of expertise, or she will facilitate support from her colleagues in other departments, within the DTM Legal practice. Our charities are always very happy with Alison, Kate and their respective teams’ support.

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Whether you need legal advice or support with a specific matter, our team is here to help. We take the time to understand your situation and provide clear, practical guidance tailored to your needs, helping you move forward with confidence.

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What Our Clients Say

See what our customers have to say about their experience

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5/5 350+Reviews
Anonymous
01/10/2023
The DTM Legal LLP are one of our charity’s most valued legal skill donors. We can rely 100% on DTM Legal’s support. They are always quick to respond and very efficient and thorough in their work. They set out the parameters to which they are able to offer pro bono support and have a personable approach, which puts the charities at ease, during what can be stressful situations.
Dianne Parrish
26/05/2026
Alison and her colleagues at DTM Legal have provided legal support and peace of mind for a wide range of organisations consistently over many years. Expertise, solutions and guidance delivered promptly with clarity.
Anonymous
01/10/2023
Our initial key contact has been such a pleasure to work with, Alison Brennan. Alison always responds to email requests promptly and, wherever possible, will offer to help either directly, if the skills request is within her area of expertise, or she will facilitate support from her colleagues in other departments, within the DTM Legal practice. Our charities are always very happy with Alison, Kate and their respective teams’ support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Commonly asked questions relating to Charity & Philanthropy legal services.

We advise charities, not-for-profit organisations, social enterprises, trustees and other organisations operating for a social or charitable purpose. Our team can provide support at every stage of an organisation’s development, from initial formation and governance through to commercial matters, restructuring and disputes.

Yes. We can advise on the most appropriate legal structure for your organisation, help prepare the necessary governing documents and support you through the process of establishing and registering your organisation. We can also help ensure that the structure you choose supports your objectives and plans for the future.

Trustees have significant responsibilities for the governance and oversight of a charity. Legal advice can be particularly valuable when making important or complex decisions, reviewing governance arrangements, managing conflicts of interest, entering significant commercial arrangements or responding to regulatory concerns. Seeking advice at an early stage can help trustees understand their responsibilities and manage potential risks.

Yes. Our Commercial Property team can provide ongoing legal support to businesses, investors, landlords and property owners managing commercial property interests.

This can include advice on acquisitions and disposals, leases, property management matters, investment transactions, development projects and refinancing, helping you manage legal requirements as your property portfolio and commercial objectives develop.

Yes. Charities and not-for-profit organisations can face many of the same legal and commercial issues as other organisations, alongside additional governance and regulatory requirements. We provide practical legal advice on matters including commercial agreements, policies and procedures, governance, organisational change and other issues that arise during the operation and development of an organisation.

Yes. Our Charity & Philanthropy team provides both contentious and non-contentious legal support. Whether you are considering a restructure, dealing with an internal governance issue, facing a commercial dispute or navigating another significant challenge, we can help you understand your options and work towards a practical solution.

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