Overview of the Panel
As many of you will know TMCP and the Connexional Team have set up the first panel of solicitors for the Methodist Church. There are five firms on the panel who are all experienced in working with charities and other Christian denominations in a wide variety of transactions ranging from manse sales and purchases to major redevelopments; disputes on matters such as boundary walls or personal injury; employment issues; and governance related transactions, such as the setting up of a trading subsidiary.
Who are the successful firms?
The five firms appointed to the panel are:
Please note each firm is listed in alphabetical order only and not in any order of preference.
How do we find out about the panel and how to contact them?
Click on the links above to access the webpages dedicated to each firm. On each page you will find an overview of the firm, the services they offer as well as the locations of their offices, who to contact and a link to the firm’s own website. There are also brochures which have been supplied by the panel firms for Managing Trustees to review and download.
Why should we use the panel?
As part of the selection process TMCP and the Connexional Team wanted to ensure that the firms on the panel would provide added values in areas such as fixed fees (where appropriate), targeted training for Managing Trustees, 30 minutes free advice and improved communication between solicitors and TMCP. The firms have all been involved in training provided by TMCP and the Connexional Team on Methodist law, policy and practice.
When using the panel Managing Trustees can be confident that the firms understand Methodist requirements and will be working closely with TMCP in collaboration with Managing Trustees; the transaction will been seen as a partnership between the solicitor, TMCP Legal and the Manging Trustees. There will also be more certainty on legal fees and reduced turnaround times in transactions.
We appreciate that Managing Trustees may still want to instruct a local solicitor but given the technological advances in the way we communicate, not only through email but also conference calls and videos, there is no longer the need for a solicitor to be based locally. Even if Managing Trustees did want face to face meetings the panel firms are all willing to travel and meet with you, talk through your projects and visit your buildings to ensure that you receive the best legal service.
TMCP and the Connexional Team are excited to be working with each of the firms on the panel and want to show Managing Trustee the benefits the panel will bring to the Methodist Church. We would encourage Managing Trustees to visit TMCP’s website and find out more about the panel firms.
You can also ensure that Local Churches, Circuits and Districts have information to hand when considering what firm of solicitors to instruct by downloading our promotional booklet.
If you have any queries in relation to the panel then please contact the Legal Manager at TMCP Legal for further assistance.