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> Experience > Sectors and focus areas > Philanthropy

Philanthropy lawyers

There is no single approach to philanthropy, however you will likely want your giving to have the biggest impact possible. Whether you choose to set up your own foundation or give to an existing cause, we can advise on how to do it most effectively.

There is no single approach to philanthropy – giving means different things to different people.  However you choose to share your wealth, your priority will be to make sure that your giving has as much impact as possible.

While many philanthropists have established their own foundations in order to give away wealth, others prefer to donate to existing causes, or to organize their giving through a donor-advised fund.  For more and more of our clients, philanthropy is an important part of their lives, business and families.

There is no single approach: what you give and how will depend on your circumstances, passions and priorities. The constant is that every philanthropist wants their giving to be as effective as possible. This is where we can assist.
 

Helping you to help

We have been acting for successful people and their families for more than 125 years, representing many well-known names from around the world.  In the UK alone we have represented 35% of the Sunday Times Giving List.

When a client asks us to assist with their philanthropic work, we begin by asking plenty of questions.  Do you have a cause in mind that you would like to support?  Is it a one-off project or an ongoing concern?  What terms and conditions (for example naming rights) should be included?  Are you interested in the tax benefits of your gift?  Would you like your family to be involved?  Do you want to be engaged or perhaps more private?  Like many of you, we are truly global – with one of the largest charities and philanthropy teams worldwide.  We can support you with all types of giving, including to develop innovative solutions for cross-border giving.
 

Looking to the future

In getting to know your giving priorities, we can advise on the most suitable method of giving.  We will advise you on tax and succession planning and can call on our global network of contacts to align you with suitable partners in the giving sector.  Over time we can help you to expand your philanthropic activities, or bring the next generation on board.

Whatever your motivation for giving, it is our pleasure to support you in supporting your chosen cause.

Track record

Our team

Philip Reed

Philip Reed

Partner | London

Philip Reed

Partner | London

Charities

Alana Petraske

Alana Petraske

Partner | New York

Alana Petraske

Partner | New York

Charities

Chris Priestley

Chris Priestley

Partner | London

Chris Priestley

Partner | London

Charities

Ivan A. Sacks

Ivan A. Sacks

Partner | New York

Ivan A. Sacks

Partner | New York

Private client and tax

Jaime McLemore

Jaime McLemore

Partner | London

Jaime McLemore

Partner | London

Private client and tax

Giulia Cipollini

Giulia Cipollini

Partner | Milan

Giulia Cipollini

Partner | Milan

Private client and tax

Alison Paines

Alison Paines

Consultant | London

Alison Paines

Consultant | London

Charities

Richard Cassell

Richard Cassell

Of counsel | London

Richard Cassell

Of counsel | London

Private client and tax

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Typical clients and industries include

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Charities and non-profit

Our significant practice in the non-profit sector means our lawyers can handle governance, mergers, commercial projects and day-to-day issues such as employment while you focus on your mission. Find Out More
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Families and family offices

Families call on us when they want a firm that understands their needs – whether they are looking to pass down wealth, set up and run a family office, or make their mark through philanthropy. Find Out More
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High net worth individuals

With complex interests that often span several jurisdictions, highly successful people need seamless advice. With a full-service offering across our offices around the world, we provide just that. Find Out More

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