Nonprofit Organizations Attorney

A law firm seeks a dedicated attorney to join its Exempt Organizations practice. The successful candidate will focus on advising mission-driven clients in Michigan’s nonprofit sector.

Duties

• Guide nonprofit and tax-exempt entities through applications for federal and state tax exemption

• Draft and review organizational charters, bylaws, and related governance documents

• Advise boards and executive teams on best practices for nonprofit governance and compliance

• Negotiate, draft, and review contracts, grants, and partnership agreements for exempt organizations

• Conduct legal research and provide counsel on nonprofit tax compliance, including private foundations and program-related investments (PRIs)

• Assist clients with political organization formation and federal grant applications (experience in these areas is a plus)

• Prepare opinion letters, policy manuals, and operating procedures tailored to nonprofit clients

• Represent clients in interactions with the IRS, state regulators, and other governmental bodies on tax-exempt matters

Requirements

• 3–6 years of experience advising nonprofit or tax-exempt entities, including experience with exemption filings and compliance counseling

• Proven ability to manage a caseload of nonprofit-focused matters, from entity formation to ongoing compliance

• Demonstrated skill in drafting and negotiating contracts, governance documents, and grant agreements

• Strong research and analytical abilities, particularly in tax-exempt and nonprofit law

• Excellent interpersonal and client-service skills, with a passion for mission-driven work

Education

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

Certifications

• Admission to the Michigan bar (other state admissions or eligibility to waive in Michigan preferred)

• Tax Bar (LL.M. in Tax) or equivalent nonprofit/tax-exempt accreditation is a plus

Skills

• Exceptional drafting and written-communication skills for opinion letters, contracts, and governance documents

• Strong oral advocacy and presentation abilities when interacting with boards, clients, and regulators

• Detail-oriented approach to complex legal issues and regulatory compliance

• Aptitude for developing strategic legal solutions that align with clients’ missions and risk profiles

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team

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.