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Law Office of Christopher P Schlies
Phone: (925) 462-0444
Email: chris@schlieslaw.com
FORMATION AND OPERATION OF
NON-PROFIT CORPORATIONS
For many, there is a desire to “give back” or return to their community or environment the benefits of their experience or success via a non-profit, charitable venture. People neither want nor expect to have liability exposure, but it is certainly possible for that to occur. Often, the founders of a non-profit entity desire for it to be set up so that others can contribute funds, receiving charitable deductions from their taxable income. It is important that the non-profit entity is itself exempt from tax. These characteristics apply only if an appropriate application is made to the IRS and approved. For all these reasons, retaining legal counsel to assist in the formation of a non-profit organization is prudent if not necessary.
Formation of a non-profit corporation is only the beginning of a process, which next requires managing and operating the undertaking. There are many questions, some of which are resolved very early, some of which are subject to decision and modification as the corporation embarks upon and continues its mission. Should it have members? How many persons should sit on the board of directors? Is the board of directors a “working board”, constituted for fundraising purposes, or somehow an honorary group with the executive director and other officers holding the reins? How is the board chosen? Are terms staggered? How can control be retained? How can the mission be assured and its continuation secured past the tenure of the founders?
Mr. Schlies has formed numerous non-profit corporations and assisted in the design of their management and operation. As a member of the Board of Directors for the Tri-Valley Conservancy, Mr. Schlies has extensive hands-on experience in the operation of a non-profit entity. He has also engaged in considerable work with existing non-profit corporations, including reviewing and revising bylaws, addressing board conflicts, and even litigating matters related to the expulsion of problem-causing members.
For a charitable non-profit organization, Mr. Schlies has regularly provided services on a reduced-fee basis.
Contact Attorney Christopher Schlies in Pleasanton, California
Contact the firm or call (925) 462-0444 to set up an appointment. Evening meetings can be arranged upon request. The firm is located in historic Downtown Pleasanton, with easy access from 580 and 680.