Family Governance
Agreeing how a family decides.
What we help put in place
Structures that protect relationships.
- I
A family charter
A short written agreement setting out the family's shared values, the purpose of its wealth and how decisions are made. Families write it together, with our guidance.
- II
A family council
A small group, chosen by the family, that meets regularly to look after shared affairs and to represent everyone fairly.
- III
Family meetings
We prepare, chair and record gatherings where the whole family can hear how things stand and have a say in what happens next.
- IV
Clear roles
Who sits on which board, who signs, who is consulted. Written down, understood and reviewed when circumstances change.
- V
Ways to settle disagreement
An agreed process for resolving differences calmly, so that a single dispute does not divide a family.
A practical view
Governance should feel like common sense.
We keep structures as simple as the family's situation allows. A family of six does not need the governance of a listed company.
Where legal arrangements are needed, such as foundations, trusts or shareholder agreements, we work with your lawyers so that they reflect what the family has agreed.
The time to agree how to disagree is while everyone still gets along.
By introduction
Start the conversation your family has been postponing.
Tell us a little about your family and what you would like to put in order. We will listen, ask a few careful questions, and tell you honestly whether we are the right office for you.