Russell-Cooke LLP has a large and well-established charity practice, which includes specialist charity property and employment lawyers, and clients praise the team's ‘responsive and attentive’ approach. Under the leadership of Andrew Studd, the group has a portfolio of high-profile clients, and is praised for its ‘exceptional availability’. The practice is adept at facilitating cross-border giving for philanthropists and companies with global assets and tax liabilities, and is also recommended for its advice on regulatory interventions by the Charity Commission, and for its work with sports organisations. Chris Rowse is a trusted adviser to numerous prominent national charities, and Pippa Garland is a key member of the department, alongside Gareth Roy. Richard Jones joined the firm in May 2025 from Bates Wells.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The firm has one of the best charity teams in the business, with an impressive depth of experience and knowledge of the sector. On top of this, the firm has experts in a wide range of specialisations on which they can call when necessary.’

  • ‘Sukanya Ransford is an outstanding lawyer. She takes the time to understand the issues and clients' expectations and delivers solutions in an effective manner. There is no doubt that she cares about her clients and is committed to get proposals "across the line".’

  • ‘Andrew Studd is the epitome of a can-do, solutions-focused, impact-motivated partner - quick to get to the heart of the issue, fresh in his thinking, pragmatic in his approach, and makes the complicated clear.’

  • ‘Andrew's technical knowledge, keen insight and understanding to our challenges combined with his approachable manner made dealing with him a pleasure.’

  • ‘The firm has been hugely supportive, particularly in the field of charity law and the complex area of HR. Carla Whalen in particular has been hugely supportive.’

  • ‘We deal with Pippa Garland who is very pleasant to deal with and yet robust and very on top of her sector. I feel confident in the advice she gives.'

Key clients

  • The British Museum
  • St John Ambulance
  • UNICEF
  • Breast Cancer Now
  • Anthony Nolan
  • Youth Hostel Association (England and Wales)
  • BOND
  • Borough Market
  • London Funders
  • CoppaFeel!
  • National Council for Civil Liberties
  • Sadler’s Wells

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.

Chris Rowse

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Andrew Studd

Other key lawyers

Chris Rowse; Pippa Garland; Gareth Roy; Sukanya Ransford; Richard Jones; Carla Whalen