Governance & Powers

Public bodies may only take decisions and actions that are within their powers and involve a reasonable exercise of powers. It is essential for public bodies to have a clear understanding of their powers and any constraints or requirements associated with them. They also need to have effective governance and decision making processes. Any action taken outside a public body’s powers and any flaw in decision making, will leave the public body vulnerable to challenge over the lawfulness of its actions. It could also lead to difficulties with the delivery of services by the public body and to complaints and reputational damage.

We act for many local authorities and other public bodies, providing a comprehensive service to meet all their requirements. We understand the unique characteristics of public bodies, their duties and powers and the importance of governance and powers to their activities. We apply our specialist expertise in governance and powers to any work we carry out for public bodies, as well as providing advice on queries relating to governance and powers. We can assist public bodies with all aspects of powers and governance including:

  • Drafting, reviewing and updating constitutions and associated documents
  • Advising on powers and their exercise
  • Advising on decisions and decision making
  • Drafting and reviewing reports to be considered by decision makers
  • Advising on changes in governance
  • Advising on and drafting governance documents for collaborative arrangements, such as joint committees
  • Advising on statutory interpretation
  • Providing training to members and officers of public bodies

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What clients say

"The team's advice is always thorough. They take a pragmatic approach in terms of the advice they give and I generally find them very good. They are very approachable, friendly and clear."

Chambers & Partners 2025

"We were delighted with the expertise and advice provided by Geldards who delivered high-quality advice, support and commitment to us at every stage of the process. We were particularly impressed with their ability to deliver effective and pragmatic advice ensuring that an often challenging project was completed satisfactorily."

Legal 500 2025

"I enjoy working with Geldards, because they are dedicated to getting the best outcome for their clients, organised, down-to-earth and clever."

Legal 500 2025

"They are fantastic and feel like an extension of the team. They are incredibly responsive and understand the issues that we face."

Chambers & Partners 2024

"Great range and depth of knowledge and skills."

Legal 500 2023

"Geldards are able to deal with specialist areas of law whilst being diligent with meeting set deadlines."

Chambers & Partners 2023

"They are very able, prompt at responding and are considered a very safe pair of hands."

Chambers & Partners 2023

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