Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of philanthropy, the importance of nonprofit organization lawyers has never been greater.

As societal needs evolve, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can interpret, apply, and protect the legal framework surrounding nonprofit organizations.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a nonprofit organization lawyer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the ins and outs of nonprofit law,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable nonprofit organization lawyer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Duties and Responsibilities

Nonprofit Organization Lawyers provide legal guidance, advice, and representation to nonprofit organizations.

They help these entities to navigate various legal issues, including those related to taxation, employment, and intellectual property.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Advising on the legal aspects of establishing a nonprofit organization
• Assisting in the preparation and filing of legal documents, such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, and tax exemption applications
• Advising on governance and regulatory compliance issues specific to nonprofit organizations
• Reviewing and drafting contracts and agreements, such as employment contracts, service agreements, and lease agreements
• Providing legal advice on fundraising activities and compliance with donor restrictions
• Advising on employment law issues, such as hiring and termination practices, wage and hour laws, and anti-discrimination laws
• Assisting with intellectual property matters, such as trademark registration and copyright protection
• Representing the organization in legal disputes and litigation
• Advising on potential legal risks and suggesting preventive measures
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of laws and regulations affecting nonprofit organizations

 

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Nonprofit Organization Lawyer to provide legal advice and services to our nonprofit organization.

The responsibilities of the Nonprofit Organization Lawyer include providing guidance on nonprofit laws, drafting and reviewing contracts, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws, and providing legal representation during litigation.

Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable about nonprofit law, has strong interpersonal skills and is deeply committed to the values and mission of our nonprofit organization.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on a wide range of issues affecting nonprofit organizations.
• Draft, review, and negotiate contracts and agreements.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state laws pertaining to nonprofit organizations.
• Represent the organization in legal proceedings.
• Advise on governance, tax, and employment matters.
• Provide guidance on fundraising laws and regulations.
• Assist in the development of policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Stay current on nonprofit law developments and best practices.

 

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• State Bar admission and good standing.
• Proven experience as a nonprofit lawyer.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws affecting nonprofit organizations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and public speaking skills.
• Highly ethical and committed to the mission of the organization.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nonprofit Organization Lawyer
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for meetings and court appearances.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Executive Director or Legal Counsel Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a copy of your state bar card to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Do?

Nonprofit Organization Lawyers specialize in laws and regulations that are specific to nonprofit organizations.

They advise their clients, who are typically leaders of nonprofit organizations, on a variety of legal matters including governance, tax laws, employment laws, intellectual property rights, and more.

These lawyers often assist in the formation of a new nonprofit, helping to draft the organization’s mission statement, bylaws, and articles of incorporation.

They also play a crucial role in helping the organization to obtain tax-exempt status by preparing and submitting the necessary documentation to the relevant government agencies.

Nonprofit Organization Lawyers also review contracts, agreements, and other legal documents to ensure that they are in the best interest of the organization.

They may also represent the nonprofit in court if legal disputes arise.

In addition, they provide ongoing legal advice to the organization as it grows and changes, helping to ensure that it remains in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

They also advise on ethical considerations and help to safeguard the nonprofit’s reputation by ensuring it operates in a transparent and accountable manner.

Lastly, they may also play a key role in strategic planning, providing legal insights that can help the organization achieve its goals.

 

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Nonprofit Organization Lawyer should possess the qualifications and skills that suit your job description, such as:

• Comprehensive understanding of laws, regulations, and policies pertaining to nonprofit organizations, including tax law, employment law, and corporate law.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex legal documents, regulations and formulate legal strategies for clients.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills to provide clear legal advice, draft legal documents, and represent the nonprofit organization in court, meetings or negotiations.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with a range of stakeholders, from clients to judges and opposition counsel.
• Research skills to stay updated with legal precedents and changes in laws related to nonprofit organizations.
• Negotiation skills to resolve disputes on behalf of the organization in a satisfactory manner.
• Problem-solving skills to identify legal risks and propose solutions to prevent or mitigate such risks.
• Ethical and professional integrity to uphold the rules of law and the ethical standards of the legal profession.
• Leadership and management skills to manage legal teams or projects effectively.

 

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Experience Requirements

Nonprofit Organization Lawyers typically need a minimum of a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

This degree often takes about three years to complete and includes courses in nonprofit law and governance.

Following law school, many lawyers gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in law firms or legal departments.

During this time, they may work on cases related to nonprofit organizations, thereby acquiring relevant experience.

In addition to this, they need to be admitted to the bar in the state where they intend to practice.

This often requires passing a written examination and demonstrating good moral character.

Entry-level Nonprofit Organization Lawyers often have 1 to 3 years of experience.

They can gain this experience through roles such as Legal Intern, Legal Assistant, or Associate Lawyer where they handled nonprofit organization cases.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have developed their legal skills and knowledge in the nonprofit sector.

They may have experience in developing and implementing legal strategies, compliance monitoring, and providing legal advice to nonprofit organizations.

Those with more than 10 years of experience usually have substantial leadership experience in their background.

They may have served as a Senior Lawyer or Legal Advisor in a nonprofit organization.

They may also have a track record of successfully resolving complex legal issues for nonprofit organizations and may be ready for executive or director-level roles.

 

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Education and Training Requirements

Nonprofit Organization Lawyers typically have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

This typically requires a bachelor’s degree in any field as a prerequisite.

Before entering law school, students must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).

Law school typically takes three years to complete, during which students will study a wide range of subjects including contracts, constitutional law, civil procedure, and legal writing.

Given the specific nature of their work, Nonprofit Organization Lawyers should also have coursework or experience in nonprofit law, which includes understanding of tax-exempt law, governance issues, and fundraising regulations.

After earning their JD, they must pass their state’s bar examination to practice law.

The exam tests knowledge of the law and skills such as research, analysis, problem-solving, communication, and legal reasoning.

Some lawyers may also seek certification from the National Association of Legal Professionals or a similar organization.

This certification, while not required, can demonstrate a lawyer’s expertise in the field of nonprofit law.

Continuing education is also a vital part of a nonprofit lawyer’s career, as they must stay up-to-date with changing laws and regulations affecting nonprofit organizations.

This could involve attending seminars, workshops or pursuing further educational opportunities.

A strong ethical sense, dedication to public service, and good communication and negotiation skills are also essential for Nonprofit Organization Lawyers.

 

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Salary Expectations

A Nonprofit Organization Lawyer can expect to earn an average salary of $76,194 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation may differ based on the individual’s experience, qualifications, and the location in which they practice.

 

Nonprofit Organization Lawyer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Nonprofit Organization Lawyer need?

A Nonprofit Organization Lawyer needs a strong understanding of laws pertaining to nonprofit organizations, including tax laws and regulations, corporate law, and employment law.

They must possess excellent communication skills, both written and oral, to effectively relay legal advice to their clients.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are also essential, along with a high level of organization and attention to detail.

 

Do Nonprofit Organization Lawyers need a specific degree?

Yes, Nonprofit Organization Lawyers, like all lawyers, must hold a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

They also need to pass the bar examination in the state where they wish to practice.

A background in nonprofit management or a related field could be beneficial but is not usually a requirement.

 

What should you look for in a Nonprofit Organization Lawyer’s resume?

When reviewing a Nonprofit Organization Lawyer’s resume, look for a valid law degree and bar association membership, which are mandatory for practicing law.

Prior experience in the nonprofit sector or with cases involving nonprofit organizations can also be a valuable asset.

In addition, take note of any specialized courses or certifications related to nonprofit law, tax law, or corporate law.

 

What qualities make a good Nonprofit Organization Lawyer?

A good Nonprofit Organization Lawyer is detail-oriented, ensuring all legal documents and filings are accurate and submitted in a timely manner.

They are ethical and trustworthy, maintaining confidentiality and acting in the best interests of their clients at all times.

They are also good communicators, able to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms that clients can understand.

 

What are the daily duties of a Nonprofit Organization Lawyer?

The daily duties of a Nonprofit Organization Lawyer may include consulting with clients, drafting and reviewing legal documents, advising on legal issues related to nonprofit operations, and representing clients in legal proceedings.

They may also spend time staying updated on changes in laws and regulations affecting nonprofit organizations.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the roles and responsibilities of a nonprofit organization lawyer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about arguing in court.

It’s about advocating for change, one legal case at a time.

With our go-to nonprofit organization lawyer job description template and real-world examples, you’re more than prepared to embark on this journey.

But why halt your momentum?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your trusted companion in crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every legal victory is a step towards a more equitable world.

Let’s shape that world. Together.

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