Erica Crump > Bates Wells > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Bates Wells acts for an impressive and diverse client roster, made up of theatres, performance venues, touring performing companies, charitable groups and cultural organisations. Bringing together expertise in data protection and information law, the group is well placed to provide well-rounded advice to a wide range of industry heavyweights. Practice head Rupert Earle stands out for his advertising and marketing expertise, while co-head Erica Crump oversees the cultural and creative team, advising on mandates concerning IP law, governance and branding. Molly Carew-Jones is also well versed in commercial contracts, governance, IP and fundraising matters in these spaces.

The large and specialist team at Bates Wells has a ‘wonderful combination of expertise in the law, deep experience in the sector, and an inherently practical outlook’. Thea Longley heads the practice, which is adept at handling day-to-day issues for its non-profit clients, through to the most complex charity law matters. Philip Kirkpatrick advises many major charities, as well as foundations. Lawrence Simanowitz’s areas of specialisation span charity formations and governance, through to spinouts and campaigning. Stephanie Biden leads the work for faith-based charities, while Laura Soley has a broad charity practice, and covers niche areas such as royal charter bodies and statutory charities. Erica Crump acts for a range of large charities and spearheads the culture and creative cross-departmental offering. Oliver Hunt frequently advises on the structuring and promotion of crowdfunded projects, particularly for renewable energy projects. In April 2024, Jean Tsang and Lucy Rhodes were promoted to the partnership. Suhan Rajkumar is another name to note.

Bates Wells‘ advertising and marketing practice is led by Rupert Earle, who maintains a strong reputation in the market for his ‘wealth of knowledge and experience‘ in the advertising sector. Noted for its work with the ASA, the firm is a popular choice for clients requiring assistance with regulatory investigations and the challenging of decisions by the regulators. It also advises major brands and charities with advertising campaigns, promotions and direct marketing. Erica Crump mainly advises charities and cultural institutions on marketing and advertising issues.