Nonprofit Services
That Build Sustainability
Supporting Your Mission with Practical Legal Solutions
What Sets Our
Nonprofit Services Apart
Many attorneys treat nonprofits just like any other business. Others focus exclusively on mission without considering sustainability.
We understand that successful nonprofits need both: a clear mission and the practical foundation to sustain it. We believe in the proverb 'No margin, no mission' and can help your nonprofit set itself up for long-term, mission-driven sustainability.
- Mission + Sustainability: We balance your charitable mission with practical business principles.
- Experienced Guidance: We've helped nonprofits navigate complex legal and tax challenges.
- Practical Solutions: Our advice is grounded in real-world nonprofit experience.
- Full-Service Support: From formation to tax compliance, we provide comprehensive guidance.
- Affordable Options: Our nonprofit services are priced to respect your budget constraints.
Why Nonprofit Legal Support Matters
Protect Your Mission
Proper legal structure ensures your organization can fulfill its mission while protecting board members and stakeholders from personal liability.
Tax Advantages
Correctly establishing and maintaining your nonprofit status provides significant tax benefits and fundraising opportunities that support your work.
Sustainable Growth
Strategic legal planning helps create a foundation for sustainable growth, allowing your nonprofit to expand its impact over time.
Our Nonprofit Legal Process
We've developed a comprehensive process to help you establish and maintain a sustainable nonprofit organization.
Initial Consultation
Our process begins with a thorough consultation to understand your mission and goals:
- Discuss your nonprofit vision and intended impact
- Explore your funding model and revenue strategies
- Assess your timeline and budget constraints
- Evaluate whether a nonprofit structure is truly the best fit
- Consider alternatives like fiscal sponsorship or B Corporation status
This consultation helps ensure we're building the right foundation for your specific needs.
Structure Planning
Based on your goals, we'll help you determine the optimal legal structure:
- Select the appropriate nonprofit classification (501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), etc.)
- Design a governance structure that supports your mission
- Develop bylaws that reflect your organization's values and operations
- Create conflict of interest and other essential policies
- Plan for sustainable revenue streams that comply with nonprofit regulations
State Formation
We'll help you establish your nonprofit at the state level:
- Prepare and file articles of incorporation or organization
- Draft comprehensive bylaws that meet state requirements
- Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Complete initial state registrations and reports
- Establish proper board governance structures and procedures
IRS Tax Exemption
For most nonprofits, obtaining federal tax exemption is a critical step:
- Prepare Form 1023 or 1023-EZ (for 501(c)(3) status)
- Develop your narrative description of activities
- Create budgets and financial projections
- Respond to IRS questions and requests for additional information
- Monitor application progress and maintain communication with the IRS
This process typically takes 3-12 months, and we'll guide you through each step.
Operational Setup
With your legal foundation in place, we'll help you prepare for operations:
- Develop board meeting procedures and documentation
- Create essential policies (conflict of interest, whistleblower, document retention)
- Establish financial controls and procedures
- Address employment and volunteer management legal issues
- Set up fundraising compliance systems
Launch & Compliance
As you begin operations, we'll ensure you're meeting all legal requirements:
- Register for charitable solicitation in appropriate states
- Implement donor acknowledgment procedures
- Address any specific regulatory requirements for your activities
- Ensure proper record-keeping and transparency
- Set up calendars for required filings and renewals
Ongoing Support
Your nonprofit's legal needs will evolve as you grow:
- Annual compliance reviews and filings
- Guidance on program expansion and new activities
- Assistance with complex transactions and partnerships
- Support for major fundraising initiatives
- Periodic governance reviews and updates
We can provide ongoing support tailored to your organization's changing needs.
Nonprofit Services We Offer
Nonprofit Formation
Comprehensive support to establish your nonprofit:
- Entity selection guidance (501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), etc.)
- State incorporation documents
- Bylaws and governance policies
- IRS Form 1023/1024 preparation and submission
Alternative Structures
Exploring options beyond traditional nonprofits:
- B Corporation formation and certification
- Fiscal sponsorship arrangements
- Donor-advised funds
- Social enterprise models
Compliance & Governance
Maintaining your nonprofit's legal standing:
- Board governance policies and training
- Annual filing requirements (990s, state reports)
- UBIT (Unrelated Business Income Tax) planning
- Conflict of interest and ethics policies
Ongoing Support
Partner with us for your nonprofit's journey:
- Revenue stream diversification strategies
- Fundraising compliance
- Risk management and liability protection
- Strategic partnerships and collaboration agreements
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Build a Sustainable Nonprofit?
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward creating a nonprofit that makes a lasting impact.