Charity & Governance
Charities and Not-For-Profit educational institutions approach us for advice on a range of matters. Our track record in this field relates to our commitment to our clients, our ability to manage complex and fast-moving situations, and our attention to detail.
"Payne Hicks Beach have carved out a niche for this work, and have unparalleled expertise in this field. They are able to work effectively and strategically and demonstrate a multi-disciplinary approach"
We advise on the structure and administration of schools, university colleges, and other academic and research institutions. We are a highly experienced team that provides strategic advice to educational institutions on governance and supports the board of governors and trustees with advice on protecting property, preserving any endowments, and maintaining the institution’s solvency and effectiveness, including in relation to trustee benefit, conflicts of interest, delegatory processes, investment and compliance.
We are particularly experienced in conjunction with our Dispute Resolution, Regulatory and Reputation Management Teams in advising on the management of charity disputes and helping educational institutions facing regulatory interventions.
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As recognised experts in this area we understand the legal and regulatory framework in the education sector, and are attuned to commercial and reputational considerations that affect our clients.
We act for individuals as well as educational bodies. Students and parents turn to us in connection with allegations of misconduct or when facing suspension or exclusion, often involving the most prestigious UK and international schools and universities. As trusted advisers to educational bodies we provide pragmatic advice managing legal challenges, alive to each institution’s unique positioning, its values and standards.
We are acutely conscious of the many sensitive issues affecting our clients, whether they face allegations or are the victim of misconduct. We are experienced in navigating these often highly charged situations. Our institutional clients value our pragmatic advice and know they can rely on our specialist knowledge which can draw on expertise from colleagues in other specialist areas such as criminal, privacy & media and employment law.
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Recent insights
January 24, 2024
Ane Vernon’s article ‘Removal from the classroom’ article featured in the independ...
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Why educational disagreements in UHNW families are more common than you think – Ane Vernon comments for Tatler Magazine
September 13, 2023
Partner in our Dispute Resolution Team and expert in education law, Ane Vernon, tells Tatler reade...
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Students are suing UK universities over Covid disruption. Do they have a case? – Ane Vernon for The Financial Times
July 27, 2023
Ane Vernon, Partner in our Dispute Resolution Team, speaks to the Financial Times about the challeng...
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