Legal Counsel for Nonprofits & Foundations

Strategic legal counsel for advocacy organizations, public charities, private foundations, and those who partner with them.

Operating through an outside general counsel model, we provide unparalleled responsiveness and consistency for clients without the layers and rigidity of traditional law firm relationships.

We act as the hub for your organization's legal function, providing seamless access to top-tier legal expertise across every area of need.

OUTSIDE GENERAL COUNSEL SERVICES

• Advise on grantmaking, public awareness campaigns, communications, programmatic initiatives, lobbying, fundraising, employment and volunteer matters, global engagement, insurance, IT, and AI • Build, scale, and manage pragmatic and effective legal and compliance functions • Serve as an organization representative to third parties • Review and negotiate contracts with vendors, consultants, and affiliates • Act as an executive advisor to the CEO, leadership, and board of directors • Facilitate and manage relationships with specialized outside experts as needed

ENTITY FORMATION & GOVERNANCE

• Advise on selection and formation of entities • Draft articles of Incorporation and bylaws • Advise boards of directors • Conduct board meetings and advise on governance practices • Develop and implement policies and practices to safeguard tax-exempt status • Provide guidance on fiduciary duties and conflict of interest policies

TAX-EXEMPT STATUS & COMPLIANCE

• Prepare and file IRS documentation for recognition of exemption • Review annual returns (e.g., Form 990) and corporate reports • Advise on operational compliance with IRS and other federal and state requirements

LOBBYING & POLITICAL ACTIVITY

• Advise on compliance with federal, state, and local lobbying laws • Review IRS and state agency filings • Review public communications, advertisements, and advocacy materials for compliance

AUDIT & INVESTIGATION REPRESENTATION

• Respond to audits and investigations by regulators • Represent clients in administrative proceedings and enforcement matters

FUNDRAISING & CHARITABLE GIVING

• Advise on charitable solicitation compliance and donor disclosures • Draft donor assurance letters and fundraising agreements • Counsel high net worth individuals and family offices on giving strategies and regulatory and tax considerations

FOR DONORS

• Assist with succession planning for family foundations and donor-led entities • Evaluate and establish giving vehicles • Counsel donors on giving strategies and regulatory and tax considerations

FOR CORPORATE PARTNERS

• Structure joint ventures • Set up non-profit affiliates • Draft and negotiate MOUs • Advise on sponsorships and cause-related marketing campaigns • Review grantmaking practices

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HOW IT WORKS

01 / Conversation About Your Mission

Reach out to schedule a conversation about your organization's goals, structure, and challenges, and what’s at stake.

02 / Build a Legal Strategy

Once we've established a relationship, your organization will get tailored advice that aligns with your mission, values, and risk tolerance. Whether you're navigating a day-to-day or complex issue, we meet you where you are.

03 / We Handle the Legal, You Stay Focused on Impact

We take the legal work off your plate so you can focus on what matters most: your organization’s mission and momentum. You’ll stay informed, supported, and compliant every step of the way.

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Your mission deserves focused attention—not legal uncertainty.

Whether you need strategic advice, help navigating compliance, or a responsive legal partner for day-to-day questions, we're here to serve as your trusted counsel.