Wrigleys Solicitors LLP has made a key senior hire within its charities and social economy team. The appointment of Nicola Evans as senior charities counsel comes in response to the growing demand for specialist advice from one of the country’s only dedicated charities and social economy departments.
Nicola brings a wealth of experience to Wrigleys. In 1996, she qualified as a charity and trusts lawyer at Herbert Smith Freehills before moving to BDB Pitmans, where she was the firm’s first knowledge lawyer for its charity team.
Among her numerous external roles, Nicola served on the Charity Law Association (CLA) committee between 2008 and 2020 and as its Chair between 2016 and 2019. She has also worked on and chaired various working parties to respond to relevant consultations, including chairing the working party that responded to the Law Commission’s consultation, ‘Technical Issues in Charity Law 2015’.
In addition, Nicola liaised and consulted with the Law Commission on an ongoing basis in the run-up to the Charities Bill introduced in Parliament in 2021, which became the Charities Act 2022, and gave evidence to the Parliamentary Special Committee.
She regularly works with the Charity Tax Group (CTG), a national organisation that campaigns for the sector, improves understanding, and seeks to secure a fair tax deal for charities. Nicola is also a regular speaker and commentator on charity law.
Speaking of her new role, Nicola said: “Wrigleys has built an impressive reputation within the field of charities law, and I’ve always admired their work. It’s clear from the growing team and impressive client roster that the department will continue to go from strength to strength, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the journey.”
Wrigleys is ranked in the Legal 500 as a top-tier leading charity law firm, and Chambers UK Guide to the legal profession has given the firm a premier ranking. The firm specialises in advice for charities, social enterprises, other voluntary, community and faith organisations and education establishments.
Wrigleys’ joint head of charities and social economy, Clare Lawrence, commented, “Nicola’s experience will further enhance the firm’s existing quality offering and ability to navigate the complex regulatory and operating landscape for charities and ensure that we continue to offer comprehensive support to our clients.”
Elizabeth Wilson, also Joint Head of Charities and Social Economy, concluded, “Nicola is a true charity law expert. Her knowledge is second to none, and she will bring huge value to not only our clients and department but the firm as a whole. We’re honoured to have her on board.”
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