Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we are most commonly asked by prospective clients considering an instruction. If your question is not covered here, please get in touch; the initial discussion is always without charge.
What types of organisations does Devol Legal work with?
We work primarily with local authorities, combined authorities, NHS bodies, government departments and other public sector organisations. Our clients range from metropolitan boroughs and county councils to unitary authorities and strategic bodies established under the English Devolution Act 2026.
How does Devol Legal charge for its services?
We offer flexible fee arrangements tailored to the engagement. These typically include fixed fees for defined scopes of work, capped day rates for advisory retainers, and project-based pricing for transformation and implementation support. We do not operate on open-ended hourly billing without accountability for outcomes.
What is the typical engagement process?
Engagements typically begin with an initial discussion (at no charge) to understand the issue and context. We then provide a written scope and fee proposal. Once instructed, we assign a named senior adviser who remains your point of contact throughout. We stay engaged through to implementation, not just diagnosis.
Do you provide legal advice or consultancy advice?
Devol Legal is a regulatory consultancy led by a qualified barrister. We provide specialist advisory services on regulatory, governance and public law matters. Where formal legal opinions or litigation support are required, we can advise on the appropriate route, which may include instructing counsel or working alongside your existing legal team.
Can you work alongside our existing legal team or external solicitors?
Yes. We frequently work alongside in-house legal teams, monitoring officers and external solicitors. Our role is typically to provide specialist regulatory and governance expertise that complements generalist legal support, particularly where matters involve operational delivery, policy design or cross-cutting regulatory complexity.
What areas of law and regulation do you cover?
Our core practice areas include licensing (Licensing Act 2003, taxi, street trading), enforcement strategy, governance and assurance, markets regulation, public procurement (including the Procurement Act 2023), public sector transformation, devolution and local government reorganisation, and policy drafting. See our full services overview.
How quickly can you respond to urgent matters?
We understand that regulatory and governance issues often arise under time pressure. For urgent matters (contested hearings, enforcement decisions, or politically sensitive issues requiring immediate support), we aim to respond within 24 hours and can typically begin substantive work within 48 hours of instruction.
Do you offer training for licensing committees and officers?
Yes. We deliver expert-led training for licensing committees, enforcement officers, regulatory professionals and senior leadership teams. Sessions are practical, scenario-based and designed around current legislation and real-world conditions. Training can be delivered in person or remotely. See our training service.
Is the initial discussion free of charge?
Yes. The initial discussion is without charge or obligation. It allows us to understand your matter, assess whether we can add value, and outline the most appropriate next step. You can book an initial discussion through our contact page or by calling 020 4617 0560.
Where are you based and do you work nationally?
Devol Legal is registered in London but works with public sector organisations across England and Wales. Most of our advisory work is delivered remotely, with on-site attendance for workshops, committee sessions, hearings and implementation support as required.