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.
‘This is the premier law firm for advising charities and not for profits. They have so much expertise and experience with a large amount of bench strength.’
'Stephanie Biden, whose strategic insight and ability to see the bigger picture has been instrumental in navigating high-stakes matters with confidence. She combines rigorous technical knowledge with a thoughtful and pragmatic approach that builds real trust.'
'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.'
'Simon has a wealth of experience and an exceptional grasp of public law and constitutional matters. His advice is always strategic and to the point, and he has a unique ability to distil complex issues into clear, actionable steps.'
‘Philip Kirkpatrick has strategic wisdom and vision making him a genuine trusted adviser. Erica Crump is so client friendly and hard working. Stephanie Biden does tremendous work for high profile clients.’
‘Luke Fletcher is not only an expert in his field but also walks the talk. With great passion for the causes of his charity clients, he influences charity law and shares knowledge and best practice with the wider sector.'
Key clients
- Friends of the Victoria Hall
- The Horniman Public Museum and Public Park Trust
- Elba Hope Foundation (Idris and Sabrina Elba’s Foundation)
- National Deaf Children’s Society
- The Royal Foundation
- Save the Children
- WaterAid
- WWF
- Sightsavers
- Médecins Sans Frontières
- Royal Albert Hall
- Shelter
Work highlights
Won a competitive tender in 2024 to be the primary legal services provider to Amnesty International UK.
Advising the Institute for the Future of Work on the charity law aspects of the structuring of its AI Sandbox.
Advising RSPCA in relation to a 3-year project to incorporate each of its c. 140 branches.
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