At SRH Law, we take our inspiration from our clients’ good work. Since the beginning days of our firm, we’ve been lucky to work with Vermont and New England nonprofit organizations that are committed to their missions of enacting positive social change, supporting individuals and communities, and protecting the environment. Our clients include a wide variety of nonprofits and co-ops of different sizes, including charities, foundations, child care centers, local community trusts, and schools and educational programs.
Nonprofit Legal Services
We provide strategic legal advice and planning services to help our clients structure and operate their organizations properly and efficiently, so they can focus on doing good work in the community. We assist organizations at all stages of development—whether you are ready to form a new nonprofit entity and apply for tax exemption, or you need assistance winding down or merging an existing organization. In between, we help keep nonprofits running smoothly by advising on compliance and governance questions including reviewing and updating governance documents, assistance with policy updates, and assessing new programs or activities for compliance risks.
Nonprofit Formation and IRS Tax Exempt Status
If you are just beginning a new project, and want to know how to start a nonprofit, we are here to help. We can assist you with all aspects of legal formation and operational start up, such as:
- Start-up and formation of nonprofit entities
- Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
- Policy development and review
- Obtaining recognition of tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service
- Seeking local property tax exemption status
Nonprofit Governance, Compliance & Operations
For existing nonprofits, we are here to help you operate in compliance with nonprofit and tax-exempt status, as well as other legal requirements that impact your operation. We can:
- Review and update bylaws and policies
- Provide guidance on state and federal limitations for lobbying and political activities
- Counsel on employment law compliance
- Advise on regulatory requirements specific to your charitable activities
- Draft and review contracts
- Assist with real estate matters
Structural Changes for Nonprofits
When your nonprofit is considering a nonprofit merger or needs restructuring legal advice, we help you evaluate your strategic options. We support you in selecting the change that best meets your needs and conduct due diligence, negotiate terms, and prepare all required governance documents and regulatory filings. We advise on board fiduciary duties, asset transfers, and risk management throughout a transition. We can help you through:
- Mergers
- Conversions
- Acquisitions
- Other corporate restructuring
- Wind up and dissolution
Legal Guidance for Nonprofit Fundraising & Charitable Campaigns
There are a number of legal requirements for nonprofit fundraising, and we provide legal counsel to navigate these federal and state regulatory requirements. Legal guidance helps safeguard your reputation, maintains regulatory compliance, and supports ethical, transparent fundraising practices. We assist with:
- Negotiating and reviewing grant agreements
- Ensuring charitable co-venture campaign compliance
- Reviewing paid fundraiser contracts and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements
- Creating Fiscal Sponsorship agreements to reduce legal and financial risk
