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Memorandum and Articles of Association

How our memorandum of association solicitors can help

A memorandum of association (also known as a business incorporation memorandum) is a vital document for any company. Whether you’re starting a new venture or just restructuring, our experienced memorandum of association solicitors can guide you through the process. Here's how we can help:

Why choose Lawhive for your memorandum of association solicitor?

We're not like a traditional law firm. At Lawhive, we simplify complex business law and offer you a more affordable service. Here’s why businesses trust us:

• Expertise in business formation law: Our big and small business solicitors specialise in drafting and reviewing memorandums of association and related governance documents. With extensive knowledge of corporate law, they can provide tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes.

• Fixed pricing: Transparency matters. That’s why we offer fixed-fee pricing for all our services, giving you clarity on costs from the start. No surprises, just straightforward legal support.

• Affordable advice: Starting a business can be expensive, but expert legal advice doesn’t have to be. Lawhive offers services that can be up to 50% more affordable than traditional firms, ensuring high-quality support within your budget.

• Fast support when you need it: We know that starting a business requires quick action. We’ll connect you with a solicitor within two working days, ensuring your legal needs are met quickly and efficiently.

Who are our memorandum of association solicitors?

We only work with experienced and reputable online solicitors. Before we recommend a lawyer, our Legal Assessment team do a thorough background check. They look at a solicitor's qualifications, recent client reviews, areas of expertise and overall experience in the industry. Every solicitor on our books brings a wealth of experience and a client-focused approach to every case. Here’s why you’re in safe hands:

• Fully qualified and regulated: All our solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), ensuring they meet the highest professional standards.

• Extensive corporate law expertise: Our team has years of experience in business formation, corporate governance, and compliance. They’ve worked with start-ups, small businesses, and large corporations, tailoring their advice to meet diverse needs.

• Proven reputation and track record: We select solicitors with a history of success in handling memorandums and articles of association. Positive client reviews and excellent outcomes are key factors in joining our network.

How much does a memorandum of association solicitor cost?

The cost of hiring a solicitor for a memorandum of association depends on your business’s specific requirements. At Lawhive, a case assessment and legal advice can start from £189 or to draft articles of association can cost up to £459. We’ll provide a fixed-fee quote tailored to your needs, ensuring absolute clarity and no hidden costs.

What other costs are there?

While solicitor fees will be your main expense, additional costs may apply when creating or updating your memorandum of association. These will be unique to each case but might include:

1. Company registration fees: Costs associated with registering your company at Companies House or equivalent authorities.

2. Certification fees: Some jurisdictions may require notarized copies of your memorandum.

3. Amendment filings: Fees for submitting changes to existing memorandums or articles of association.

4. Specialist advice: If your business requires bespoke legal advice, such as tax planning or intellectual property considerations.

What is the memorandum of association legal process?

Here’s what you can expect when working with our memorandum of association solicitors:

1. Initial consultation

Your solicitor will start by understanding your business’s goals, structure, and legal requirements. This consultation forms the basis for drafting or reviewing your memorandum.

2. Drafting the memorandum

Using the information gathered, your solicitor will draft a customised business incorporation memorandum. This document will include essential details like your company’s name, objectives, and members’ commitments.

3. Reviewing related documents

If you have existing articles of association or other governance documents, your solicitor will ensure they align with the memorandum. This step avoids inconsistencies and potential disputes.

4. Filing and registration

Your solicitor will guide you through submitting the memorandum to the relevant authorities, such as Companies House, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

5. Addressing amendments

If changes are needed later - such as adding shareholders or modifying objectives - your solicitor will handle the updates and filings.

6. Ongoing compliance support

To maintain compliance, your solicitor can provide regular updates on legal changes and advise on adjustments to your memorandum or articles as your business evolves.

What are model articles of association?

'Model' articles of association are default articles that a company can use. There are three types available, model articles for private companies limited by shares, private companies limited by guarantee and public companies. A company can adopt all or some of the provisions outlined in the model articles. Many companies use model articles of association. However, you may want to use a solicitor to draw up bespoke articles if there are provisions you're not happy with or wish to change.

Your questions, answered

Do I need a solicitor to draft a memorandum of association?

While it’s possible to draft a memorandum independently, having a solicitor ensures the document is accurate, compliant, and tailored to your business’s needs.

What’s the difference between a memorandum and articles of association?

The memorandum outlines your company’s purpose and foundational details, while the articles govern how the company operates, including rules for directors and shareholders.

Can I change my memorandum of association after registration?

Yes, amendments can be made to reflect changes in your business, but they often require special resolutions and filings with Companies House.

When do you need to register articles of association?

Unless a company is using model articles provided by section 20 of the Companies Act, it must register its unique articles of association. The Articles of Association that a company registers should be presented as a single document and consecutively numbered paragraphs for easy reference.

Do I need a new memorandum for restructuring?

In most cases, significant restructuring such as a change in ownership requires updates to your memorandum and potentially your articles of association.

What should be included in articles of association?

Articles of association should include:

• Directors’ and members’ rights, duties and responsibilities

• Guidelines on profit distribution

• Decision-making processes

• Procedures for appointing and removing directors.

How does a memorandum of association differ from a memorandum of understanding?

A memorandum of association helps establish a company, while a memorandum of understanding (MOU) is a statement of intent that can signal a contract is imminent.

What are your next steps?

Whether you’re starting a new company, updating governance documents, or seeking compliance advice, Lawhive is here to help. Our memorandum of association solicitors provides expert guidance, ensuring your business is legally sound and ready to thrive. Contact us today for a free quote and take the first step toward securing your company’s future.

References

• Companies Act 2006

• Memorandum and articles of association from Gov.UK