Moore Barlow has an expansive charity practice, with experience in the housing, education, religious and health sectors. The firm is also practiced in reputation management for charities going through a crisis. It has additional experience advising private philanthropists. Gordon Reid, whose specialisms include reputational and governance advice, heads the practice alongside Joanna Lada-Walicki, an expert in employment and pastoral concerns. Paul Ridout, who joined the practice from Hunters Law LLP in April 2023, focuses on advising faith-based charities on mergers and constitutional matters. George Shepherd is a key member of the team, advising youth, religious and health charities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Moore Barlow are a full-service charity firm, who provide timely and practical advice.’
‘George Shepherd provides clear consistent advice, on market practice as well as direct legal issues, combined with effective drafting and patient but firm deal-handling.’
‘I daily thank the heavens I was introduced to Paul Ridout.'
‘Paul Ridout is a joy to work with.'
‘Detailed knowledge of legal issues and legal requirements facing charities. They seek to understand the particular circumstances and offer practical and tailored advice. ’
‘The personal touch and understanding of the people and the business they support is superb. The range of knowledge within the practice covers all the elements we would possible need and more.’
‘The team provides a range of integrated advice, working together well.’
‘Adam McRae‑Taylor is balanced and clear, with a sympathy for the wider impact of the situation.’
Key clients
- Young Minds Trust
- The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women
- National Rifle Association
- Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
- Boys’ Brigade
- Shooting Star Children’s Hospices
- Institute of Biomedical Science
- Compassion UK
- 24-7 Prayer
- YMCA East Surrey
Work highlights
- Advising Young Minds Trust on its partnership with Marks & Spencer, anticipated to raise £5m for the charity.
- Advising a high-profile faith charity on a complex safeguarding investigation including advising on steps to safeguard the charity’s reputation and advising on the charity’s internal policies and employment law issues.
- Acting for two grant-making charities on multi-million-pound property investment transactions and advising on the merger of the charities.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Gordon Reid; Joanna Lada-Walicki
Other key lawyers
Paul Ridout; George Shepherd; Helen Harvie; Adam McRae-Taylor