We proudly act for more charities, non-profits and tax-exempt entities than any other law firm in the province. We act for the foundations of the largest hospitals in Nova Scotia, as well as small individual foundations and a diverse range of non-profit organizations, including golf clubs, yacht clubs, athletic and cultural organizations, health, conservation, and community organizations.
Structure of the Organization
We advise on choosing the appropriate structure for your organization’s purposes and activities, whether incorporation as a non-profit or registration as a charity best serves your goals.
Incorporating and Registering as a Charity
We handle incorporation and registration with Canada Revenue Agency, ensuring your organization meets all requirements for charitable status.
Bylaws
We ensure that the Bylaws reflect the particular requirements of the organization while meeting legal obligations.
Governance
Many lawyers at the firm serve, or have served, on boards of charitable and non-profit organizations. This first-hand knowledge benefits our clients. We provide advice to members and directors on their roles and responsibilities.
Accountability to the Public
We help organizations meet their accountability obligations to members, donors, and the public through proper structures and procedures.
Compliance
We ensure compliance with respect to the handling of funds, income tax requirements, GST/HST obligations, and municipal tax obligations.
Tax Planning
We advise on tax planning related to receiving donations and other income, significant purchases and sales, and the disbursement of fundraising revenues. We implement solutions that enable organizations to recover tax expenditures through means such as GST/HST rebate claims.
Agreements
We prepare and review agreements, including employment contracts and service contracts, tailored to the non-profit sector.
Your inquiry is confidential and only used to connect you with our team.
Non-Profit & Charities Lawyer
Legal Services:
- Business Operations
- Commercial Transactions
- Non-Profit & Tax-Exempt Entities
- Tax Controversy
- Taxation
Languages:
English
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a non-profit and a charity?
All registered charities are non-profits, but not all non-profits are charities. Charities must have exclusively charitable purposes and register with CRA for tax benefits. Non-profits can have broader purposes.
What are directors’ responsibilities?
Directors of charitable and non-profit organizations have fiduciary duties and potential personal liability. Individuals who serve voluntarily on boards often lack the specialized knowledge typically found among corporate boards, making their advice particularly valuable.
Can non-profits carry on business?
Non-profits can engage in business activities within limits. Registered charities face restrictions on engaging in unrelated business activities. Proper structuring is essential to maintain tax-exempt status.
Focus Areas
Explore all services in this area:
- Construction & Development: Legal support for developers, investors, contractors, and consultants involved in public and private construction projects across Atlantic Canada.
- Non-Profit & Charities: Guidance for charities, non-profits, and tax-exempt entities of all sizes, including major hospital foundations and community organizations.
- Media Law: Representation for print, radio, and television organizations across Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada, including matters before Trial and Appellate Courts.
- Defamation: Support for plaintiffs and defendants in cases involving false statements or harm to reputation, including trials before juries.
- Professional Regulation: Advice and representation for self-regulating professions, including engineers, surveyors, and medical and allied health professionals.