Bates Wells ‘has a best-in-class charities law practice’, which ’is strong both technically and in terms of providing high-quality, tailored and risk-based legal advice’. The sizeable team, which is headed by Thea Longley, regularly covers the most complex charity law cases for household name clients and is lauded for its ‘client-centric’ approach and consists of ‘highly experienced’ practitioners, such as Philip Kirkpatrick, who frequently advises on complex Charity Commission inquiries. Lawrence Simanowitz advises a myriad of international clients, and has a strong focus on the environment and arts sectors. Stephanie Biden is another key figure who leads on work with faith-based charities, and Laura Soley is experienced in diverse matters, such as advising on statutory charities, and royal charter bodies. Erica Crump acts for a range of large charities, while Oliver Hunt often advises charities, social enterprises and impact driven businesses. Lucy Rhodes and Livia Velicu are recommended, alongside Suhan Rajkumar who was promoted to the partnership in April 2025. The ‘trustworthy and wise’ Luke Fletcher is another notable member of the group.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Laura Soley leads a team of experts effectively and is thoughtful and responsive on a wide range of questions. Mark Abbott has been incredibly patient and clear when dealing with a prolonged process involving a large number of volunteers.’
- 'Suhan Rajkumar brings a calm, analytical approach to even the most difficult legal issues. He is consistently clear, reliable, and constructive—someone you want in your corner when navigating tricky governance or regulatory matters.'
Key clients
- Friends of the Victoria Hall
- The Horniman Public Museum and Public Park Trust
Work highlights
Won a competitive tender in 2024 to be the primary legal services provider to Amnesty International UK.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Thea Longley
Other key lawyers
Philip Kirkpatrick; Lawrence Simanowitz; Stephanie Biden; Laura Soley; Erica Crump; Oliver Hunt; Lucy Rhodes; Suhan Rajkumar; Livia Velicu; Simon Steeden; Luke Fletcher; Mark Abbott