Do you really need a lawyer as a non-profit? Will they understand your needs? Are they really there to help?
With the current perception of lawyers, it may seem like lawyers and nonprofits are not a fit, but the hard reality is, staying true to the mission calls for expert navigation of the legal landscape. Hence the importance of a good legal partner for non-profits.
And the good news is, there ARE good law firms out there. Ones that were built to help.
For example, here at Ebony Law, we always say we are a social enterprise law firm dedicated to demystifying the legal system for non-profits, small businesses and people in need. It’s our mission to help you serve your mission, using the tools we have.
We understand how important a good legal partner is essential for non-profits, and we want you to too. Here are some initial reasons a good legal partner is important for nonprofits:
1.Getting incorporated and tax-exempt status is easier with a good legal partner.
Incorporation is crucial for non-profit organizations. In addition to legally protecting the organization and its members, it is a requirement when seeking tax-exempt status. A knowledgeable legal partner helps to streamline the process by making sure the organization is set up according to the requirements listed by the Internal Revenue Service. The organization’s staff can thus remain focused on their mission knowing that their legal needs are taken care of.
As a social enterprise, we understand the value of incorporation and tax-exempt status for nonprofits. We work with you to ease the process of getting this important step out of the way so you can get back to your core operations as quickly as possible.
2. Nonprofits must be compliant with regulations and laws just as any other business.
Compliance is a huge deal for nonprofits. Failure to comply with the relevant laws and regulations can result in massive penalties and sometimes, loss of the organizations’ tax-exempt status.
With the help of a good legal partner, however, nonprofits can ensure they remain compliant and stay updated on the latest regulations. Additionally, a good legal partner will help you understand these updates for yourself which makes you more effective in running your organization.
3. A good legal partner identifies and protects your intellectual property.
Discovering your brand is being misused is not only annoying, but can actually have adverse legal ramifications if the parties involved have sinister intentions. Nonprofit organizations rely on their brand to achieve their goals, and so when that brand image is tampered with or infringed upon, it can cause serious damage to the organization as a whole.
A good legal partner will identify and protect the organization’s intellectual property, including trademarks and copyrights, preventing bad players from taking advantage of the organization’s image. We know we can often feel like “this will never happen to me” but the truth is, it can happen to anyone, that’s why we always encourage small businesses and nonprofits to protect themselves.
4. Fundraising sometimes requires legal assistance
There are many regulations governing fundraising activities for non-profits. As this is the lifeblood of a non-profit, it is important to secure a good legal partner to help with staying compliant with all the requirements before embarking on any fundraising activity.
A good legal partner will ensure you satisfy all the registration requirements, file the appropriate disclosures and meet all reporting criteria. There is no reason why the non-profit should suffer hefty penalties on account of non-compliance, hence the need for an expert legal partner.
5. Handling disputes and litigation is easier with a good legal partner
Sadly, non-profits aren’t exempt from disputes and litigation. When dealing with sensitive situations, emotions arise and disagreements are inevitable. Getting the best outcome for a dicey situation often takes the expertise of good legal counsel.
Non-profits can lean on the right legal partner for advice and representation where necessary. Having this kind of protection gives non-profits a safety net to carry out their missions without fear or reservation.
If you can’t tell, we are passionate about giving back, and we love to work with nonprofits in advancing their goals. We believe in the power of a helping hand, and our unconventional approach to law makes us the perfect partner for this. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your organization do good in the world.
Non-profit organizations exist to do good in the world, but it can be challenging to navigate the legal landscape while staying true to their mission. That’s where a good legal partner comes in.
At our law firm, we understand the unique challenges that non-profits face, and we’re committed to helping them achieve their goals. Here are just a few reasons why having a good legal partner is essential for non-profits:
1.Incorporation and Tax-Exempt Status
Incorporation is a critical step for any non-profit organization. Not only does it provide legal protection for the organization and its members, but it also allows the organization to apply for tax-exempt status. Achieving tax-exempt status requires careful attention to legal details, and having a knowledgeable legal partner can help streamline the process.
2. Compliance with Regulations and Laws
Non-profit organizations must comply with a range of regulations and laws, including state and federal tax laws, fundraising regulations, and employment laws. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties or even loss of tax-exempt status. A good legal partner can help non-profits stay up to date with the latest regulations and ensure that they are in compliance.
3. Protection of Intellectual Property
Many non-profit organizations rely on their brand and reputation to achieve their goals. Protecting their intellectual property, including trademarks and copyrights, is crucial to maintaining that reputation. A legal partner can help non-profits identify and protect their intellectual property, which can prevent others from infringing on their brand and mission.
4. Legal Assistance for Fundraising
Fundraising is a vital part of non-profit organizations, but it can be complicated. There are many regulations and laws governing fundraising, including registration requirements, disclosures, and reporting. A good legal partner can help non-profits navigate these requirements and ensure that they are following the law.
5. Handling Disputes and Litigation
Unfortunately, disputes and litigation are sometimes inevitable, even for non-profit organizations. A good legal partner can help non-profits handle these situations, providing guidance and representation when needed.
In conclusion, a good legal partner is essential for non-profit organizations. At our law firm, we’re committed to helping non-profits achieve their goals while navigating the legal landscape. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your organization do good in the world.