As International Jurists, we provide a wide range of legal advice to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and nonprofits to ensure they operate legally, manage risks, and maintain their tax-exempt status. This advice often covers the entire lifecycle of the organization, from formation to day-to-day operations and specialized legal compliance.
Types of advice we provide to NGOs:
1. Formation and Corporate Structure
- Incorporation: Drafting articles of incorporation and bylaws to establish the legal entity.
- Tax-Exempt Status: Guiding NGOs through the process of obtaining and maintaining tax-exempt status
- Governance: Advising on board responsibilities, fiduciary duties, and conflict of interest policies.
2. Regulatory Compliance
- Charitable Registration: Ensuring compliance with state and federal laws regarding fundraising, solicitation, and registration.
- Operational Compliance: Providing guidance on reporting requirements, annual filings, and lobbying restrictions for advocacy groups.
- Data Protection: Advising on GDPR or other privacy policies regarding donor and beneficiary data.
3. Operational and Contractual Advice
- Contract Review: Drafting and reviewing vendor agreements, partnership contracts, and service agreements.
- Leases and Property: Handling real estate matters, such as office leases.
- Intellectual Property (IP): Protecting trademarks, logos, and branding materials.
4. Employment and HR Law
- Staffing Policies: Assisting with employment contracts, personnel manuals, and policies that comply with labor laws.
- Volunteer Management: Advising on the legal distinction between employees and volunteers, and managing risk.
- HR Disputes: Handling discrimination, harassment, or wrongful termination claims.
5. Risk Management and Litigation
- Risk Assessment: Identifying potential liabilities and implementing risk management strategies.
- Dispute Resolution: Representing the organization in negotiations or litigation.
- Whistleblower Policies: Advising on compliance with, and response to, internal whistleblower complaints.
6. Specialized Advice
- International Law: Advising on cross-border operations and legal requirements for international NGOs.
- Mergers and Restructuring: Facilitating mergers with other nonprofits.
- Grant Compliance: Ensuring proper management of funds to comply with grant requirements.
7. Pro Bono Legal Services
Many lawyers and law firms provide this advice to NGOs on a pro bono (free) basis to help them focus their resources on their mission. This is common for:
Long-term support: Serving as a “first port of call” for legal queries.
One-off legal issues: Such as reviewing a specific contract or updating a policy.