Effective governance is essential to ensuring the success and sustainability of charities and non-profit organisations. At DTM Legal, we act as your trusted partner to address the governance requirements of running your organisation, ensuring your operations are compliant, efficient, and focused on your mission.
Key Governance Considerations
- Constitutional Documentation
An organisation’s constitution or governing document should accurately reflect its objectives and provide a framework for governance. In addition, registered charities, must have Charity Commission approval of their constitution. We offer support in drafting or reviewing these documents, ensuring they are fit for purpose, compliant with current legal standards and Charity Commission requirements.
- Board Responsibilities and Structure
The board of trustees or directors plays a crucial role in steering an organisation. It is essential to clearly define roles, ensuring there are well-established processes for decision-making, oversight, and accountability. We provide guidance on creating effective board structures that comply with legal obligations while promoting transparency and ethical decision-making.
- Conflicts of Interest
Non-profits must avoid conflicts of interest to maintain their integrity and charity trustees and company directors have additional legal obligations in relation to avoiding conflicts of interest. Our team can assist in creating policies and procedures to manage conflicts effectively.
- Regulatory Compliance
There are numerous regulatory requirements which apply to charities and non-profit organisations. From annual reporting requirements to ensuring that charitable objectives are met, we assist organisations in understanding and meeting their legal obligations, reducing the risk of regulatory intervention.
- Risk Management
Non-profits often face significant risks, ranging from financial sustainability to safeguarding issues. A strong governance framework includes identifying, assessing, and managing risks. Our team can help you put systems in place to ensure your organisation is resilient, protecting both your beneficiaries and assets.
How DTM Legal Can Help
At DTM Legal, we specialise in providing tailored legal services to the non-profit sector. Our experienced team can assist you with:
- Setting up a charity or non-profit organisation: We can advise on the different legal structures available and assist with the legal set up of the organisation and, if applicable, registration with the Charity Commission.
- Governance Audits: We review your current governance structures and identify areas for improvement, helping you stay compliant and effective.
- Trustee Training: We provide training to trustees on their legal duties and governance best practices, ensuring they have the knowledge needed to fulfil their roles.
- Policy Development: We help non-profits draft or refine key policies related to conflict resolution, risk management, financial matters and more.
- Dispute Resolution: In the event of internal disputes or external challenges, our legal experts can help resolve conflicts swiftly and efficiently.
Why Choose DTM Legal?
Our team combines extensive legal expertise with a deep understanding of the charity sector. We work closely with trustees, executives, and boards to deliver practical, actionable advice that strengthens governance and ensures regulatory compliance. Whether you are setting up a new charity or enhancing the governance of an established organisation, DTM Legal is here to support you every step of the way.
For expert advice and personalised service, and to discuss our Charity & Philanthropy Legal services, please contact:
Phone: 01244 354815
Email: Alison.Brennan@dtmlegal.com
Phone: 01244 354801
Email: Richard.Thomas@dtmlegal.com
