Legal Resources For Nonprofits
Legal forms and papers on legal topics
The Washington Nonprofit Handbook is now available. The Nonprofit Handbook is available in bound, hard-copy format by filling out the attached Order Form. All orders must be received by September 30, 2010
This informative manual provides guidance on many legal issues facing nonprofit organizations in Washington State including:
- How to form a nonprofit
- Governance and operations
- Obtaining recognition as a 501(c)(3) organization
- Maintaining federal tax-exempt status
- International activities and grantmaking
- Fundraising
- Washington State taxes
- Fiscal sponsorships, joint ventures, and other collaborations
- Employment issues
- Intellectual property issues
- Ceasing operations
This Handbook references the following forms and templates that may be useful to nonprofits and their attorneys:
- Form Articles of Incorporation for a Washington State nonprofit organization without members.
- Form Bylaws for a Washington State nonprofit organization without members.
- Form Conflict of Interest Policy for nonprofit organization.
- Articles of Amendment for nonprofit organization.
Employment-related issues.
Sample checklist to help you determine whether someone is an independent contractor or an employee.
Sample agreements securing a nonprofit's rights in intellectual property - Please note these are only sample agreements or templates, and do not cover all potential circumstances an organization may face. It is always advisable for a nonprofit organization to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to assure that any agreement is tailored to the particular needs of the organization:
- Form independent contractor or work for hire agreement
- Form intellectual property assignment agreement
- Form release of intellectual property rights
WAACO's Nonprofit Legal Self-Assessment Checklist serves as a guide for helping nonprofits understand common legal obligations and for highlighting areas where greater inquiry should be made.
