News 4
Royal Charters
Produced in partnership with Adam Cygan of University of Leicester and Darragh Connell
Practice notesRoyal Charters
Produced in partnership with Adam Cygan of University of Leicester and Darragh Connell
Practice notesWhat is a Royal Charter?
The term 'Royal Charter' has transformed over time. Originally, a Royal Charter was a procedure by which the Crown could grant corporate personality to bodies of persons conducting activities for public, or private, benefit. Today, the term essentially describes an honorary status, which may be granted to eminent professional bodies or charitable organisations which have a record of achievement and are deemed financially sound in the opinion of the Privy Council.
The term is sometimes used to refer to municipal charters, which establish towns and cities.
Historical usage
Obtaining a Royal Charter was the original mechanism to acquire corporate personality for bodies of persons conducting activities for public, or private, benefit. The first Royal Charter for a body of persons providing public benefit was granted to the University of Cambridge in 1231 and for private benefit to The Sadlers Company in 1272.
As well as educational institutions, such as universities, and livery companies, a Royal Charter became increasingly linked to groups of persons carrying on a profession. This
To view the latest version of this document and thousands of others like it,
sign-in with LexisNexis or register for a free trial.
Related documents:
Practice notes 6
Q&As 2