Paul Ridout
UK Guide 2025
Band 4 : Charities
Band 4
About
Provided by Paul Ridout
Practice Areas
As a highly experienced solicitor in Moore Barlow’s Guildford office, Paul possesses a wealth of expertise in the area of charity law, having spent more than 20 years specialising in this field. His knowledge is extensive, enabling him to provide his clients with the guidance they need to navigate the complex legal requirements that come with running a charitable organisation.
Prior to training as a lawyer, Paul worked at the Charity commission, an experience that has proven invaluable in his current role. This unique perspective has provided him with an in-depth understanding of the regulatory environment surrounding charitable organisations and has equipped him with a deep knowledge of the legal framework that governs their operations.
He advises a diverse range of charity clients, with a particular focus on faith-based organisations and charities operating in the cultural/heritage, medical, and conservation fields. With extensive experience in this area, he is adept at guiding his clients through a range of legal issues, including constitutional changes, mergers, and regulatory compliance. He also offers guidance on matters such as sponsorship, grant-making, and trading activities.
He supports clients in all their dealings with the Charity commission, from initial registration to ongoing regulatory compliance and inquiries, he is there every step of the way to provide the guidance and support clients need to succeed.
Whether you are seeking to establish a new charity or are looking for expert guidance on your current organisation’s legal affairs, Paul can help you achieve your goals.
Outside of his legal role he's a keen photographer of local wildlife and of the night sky and has been an enthusiastic road cyclist since his teens.
Chambers Review
UK
Paul Ridout is a lawyer in the charities team based in Moore Barlow's Guildford office. He regularly assists cultural, healthcare and faith-based charities on matters including governance and regulatory compliance. Ridout is particularly adept at advising on interactions with the Charity Commission and the CQC.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Paul provides an exceptional service and consistently ensures that terms are legally sound and favourable to our organisation."
"Paul has always been very helpful and responsive to issues in a timely manner. His knowledge of charity law is very strong."
"Paul provides an exceptional service and consistently ensures that terms are legally sound and favourable to our organisation."
"Paul has always been very helpful and responsive to issues in a timely manner. His knowledge of charity law is very strong."