In The Planning Phase? 4 Reasons You Need An Attorney For Your Nonprofit Startup

13 December 2019
 Categories: Law, Blog


If you and your group have decided on a nonprofit startup, don't make any concrete decisions until you consult with an attorney. Successful nonprofit startups need more than a good idea and a strong desire to help others. They also require a stable foundation. The best way to ensure a stable foundation for your nonprofit startup is to have an attorney on board from inception. Here are four ways that an attorney will help you avoid problems with your nonprofit startup. 

Choosing the Right Type of Business Organization

If you're moving forward with your nonprofit, you need to start with the right type of business organization. There are two main types; nonprofit corporations and nonprofit limited liability companies, or LLCs. Each type of business structure serves a vital purpose in the nonprofit world. However, it's important that you choose the right type for your particular organization. When you consult with your attorney, they'll help you choose the one that will work best for your particular needs. 

Understanding the Applicable Laws and Regulations

When you begin operating your nonprofit startup, you'll be held to specific state and federal laws and regulations. Failure to abide by those laws and regulations could put your organization at risk for legal problems. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to identify the laws and regulations that pertain to specific nonprofit organizations, which is where an experienced attorney comes in handy. Your attorney will help you understand that laws and regulations that your nonprofit will be required to abide by. They can also help you avoid issues that may put your organization at odds with those laws and regulations. 

Filing the Appropriate Forms and Documents

While you're in the process of getting your nonprofit startup off the ground, there will be numerous forms that you'll need to fill out as well as various documents you'll need to provide. While it is possible to locate the appropriate forms and documents on your own, it's much easier to have the assistance of an attorney during the process. They can ensure that all the required forms and documentation are provided properly. 

Ensuring the Proper Contractual Language

Your nonprofit startup will require various legal contracts. Some of those contracts will involve the people who will be working for you. If your contracts aren't properly prepared, you won't have a legal leg to stand on should issues arise. To ensure that your contracts contain the appropriate contractual language, you need to consult with an attorney right away about nonprofit startup services.


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