Immunity from Seizure

Planning on bringing an international exhibition to the UK?

When museums and galleries bring cultural objects into the country for temporary display, ensuring their legal safety is a top priority.

UK law provides a specific framework, known as Immunity from Seizure, to protect these items while they are here.

To secure protection under the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007, you must act early. Your application to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) should be submitted at least 12 weeks before the objects enter the UK. We lead you through this timeline to ensure your loan remains compliant and protected.

Navigating this process requires a specialist touch. Our firm has managed nearly all applications for Immunity from Seizure in the last 10 years, making us the uniquely qualified choice to secure your exhibitions. We understand the nuances of the legislation and exactly what the regulators expect.

Our core services:

We provide the practical support necessary to meet the high standards of the DCMS:

• Eligibility & Compliance: Confirming your objects meet the legal criteria for protection.
• Due Diligence: Assisting with the thorough provenance research required by law.
• Application Management: Drafting materials and coordinating statutory public notices.
• Liaison: Managing communication with government bodies to ensure a smooth process.

Our involvement ensures that requirements are addressed clearly and efficiently, giving international lenders the confidence they need before their collections travel to the UK.