Charities and Nonprofits: Support for Setting up and Managing.

Legal Advice for Charities and Not-for-Profit Organisations

We support both new and established charities, incorporated societies and other not for profit organisations with legal advice that reflects your governance responsibilities, compliance requirements and community purpose.

Our goal is to help your organisation operate confidently within the law while staying aligned with your kaupapa.

Setting Up a Charity or Not-for-Profit

We help you get off to a strong start with legal advice tailored to your structure and purpose. We assist with:

• Choosing the most appropriate legal structure

• Drafting trust deeds, constitutions or society rules

• Registering with Charities Services

• Applying for donee status with Inland Revenue

We guide you through each step so you understand what is required and how it supports your long term goals.

Ongoing Legal Support

As your organisation grows or evolves, we provide practical legal support to keep your governance and compliance in good shape. This includes:

• Reviewing governance frameworks and board responsibilities

• Updating constitutions or trust deeds to meet legal changes

• Ensuring compliance with the Charities Act and the Incorporated Societies Act 2022

• Advising on internal decisions, dispute resolution and strategic matters

We help you stay legally sound while maintaining focus on your people, services and community.

Practical Guidance for Boards and Managers

We work with trustees, committee members, managers and administrators to provide advice that is:

• Clear and constructive

• Grounded in law and governance best practice

• Aligned with your kaupapa and operational priorities

Whether you are reviewing documents or making major decisions, we support your leadership team with practical insight.

Where We Work

Our charity and not for profit law team is based in Wellington, Lower Hutt and Masterton. We work with community groups, trusts, charitable organisations and nonprofit entities throughout New Zealand.

Questions We Often Get Asked About Charities and Not for Profit Law

What legal structure should we choose when setting up a charity?

The right legal structure depends on your purpose, governance style and funding model. Common options include charitable trusts, incorporated societies and charitable companies. We help assess which structure best suits your goals.

Do we need to register with Charities Services?

Yes, if your organisation wants to be recognised as a registered charity in New Zealand, registration is required. It supports public trust and provides access to tax exemptions. We guide you through the process and prepare the necessary documentation.

What is donee status and how do we get it?

Donee status allows donors to claim tax credits for their donations. To qualify, your organisation must be registered with Charities Services and meet the criteria under the Income Tax Act. We help with Inland Revenue applications and eligibility checks.

Do we need to update our rules or trust deed under the new Incorporated Societies Act?

Yes, all incorporated societies must update their constitution to comply with the 2022 Act. There are transition deadlines and specific legal requirements. We review and rewrite constitutions to ensure they meet the new legislation.

Can you help us resolve a governance or board dispute?

Yes, we advise on internal decision making and resolving disputes within boards or committees. We help clarify governance roles, interpret your constitution and guide you through solutions that reflect the law and your kaupapa.