Partner or Associate Attorney - Exempt Organizations

Job Title: Partner or Associate Attorney - Exempt Organizations

Job Overview:
A respected law firm located in Ann Arbor, MI, is seeking an experienced attorney with 3-6 years of specialized background in supporting nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations. This role offers a distinctive opportunity to serve community-focused clients through a practice dedicated to institutions that drive social good. The ideal candidate will bring not only legal acumen but also a strong commitment to the nonprofit mission and sector development.

Duties:

• Advise clients on legal structures and operational strategies for nonprofit and tax-exempt entities

• Prepare and submit tax exemption applications under various sections of the Internal Revenue Code

• Draft foundational documents, including bylaws, operating procedures, and governance policies

• Guide board members and executive leadership on regulatory and fiduciary obligations

• Handle contracts, memoranda of understanding, and service agreements tailored for nonprofits

• Conduct in-depth legal research on nonprofit tax rules, compliance standards, and charitable regulations

• Advise on private foundation operations and program-related investments (PRIs)

• Support entities navigating political activity compliance and federal grant structuring (preferred but not required)

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3-6 years of hands-on legal experience working with nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations

• Familiarity with Section 501(c)(3) and related tax-exemption classifications

• Demonstrated ability to manage clients with sophisticated governance or compliance needs

• The capability to work autonomously while contributing to a collaborative legal team

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

Certifications:

• Active membership in at least one U.S. State Bar

• Eligibility for admission in Michigan, if not already admitted

Skills:

• Strong research and analytical skills in nonprofit and tax law

• Drafting precision and clarity in policy, governance, and exemption-related documents

• Comfortable navigating IRS regulations and charitable compliance issues

• Excellent client communication and relationship management abilities

• Proficiency in interpreting evolving nonprofit-related legal developments

Job Location:

• Ann Arbor, MI

• Remote work arrangements may be considered for candidates located outside the state

This established large firm based in Detroit with offices in several cities in Michigan serves clients in matters that include litigation, labor & employment, banking, intellectual property, tax, and environmental law. Its clients range from corporations, large and small, governmental entities, and individuals with substantial business and charitable interests. The firms environment is collegial, and lawyers seem to enjoy practicing law as well as each others company. Compensation at the firm is average.