Charities & Not-For-Profit Law
Helping You Help Others
Running a successful charity or not-for-profit comes with unique challenges. At Ross & McBride, we understand the complexities you face—from complying with regulations and managing government and stakeholder relationships to securing funding, maintaining tax-exempt status, and ensuring strong governance.
No matter the size of your organization, our capable team of charities and non-profit lawyers provides strategic legal guidance tailored to your needs, so you can stay focused on making a difference in your community.
How do we accomplish this? We’re glad you asked.
Clear Guidance for Staff, Volunteers, & Boards
Working with a legal team can feel daunting, especially for staff, volunteers, or board members new to the process. That’s why we focus on having clear, straightforward conversations at every turn. Clients who work with our team can expect:
- Simplified Legal Concepts: We break-down complicated terms so you can move forward with confidence.
- Stress-Free Processes: Our approachable team is here to guide you every step of the way, making the process as smooth and manageable as possible.
- Proactive Problem-Solving: We’ll help you spot potential challenges early and take care of them before they become issues, so you can focus on your organization’s success.
Charity and Not-for-Profit Law Services
- Charitable registration under the Income Tax Act
- Legal Advocacy
- Maintaining charitable status and dealing with the CRA
- Transition under the new federal and provincial corporate legislation
- Updating by-laws and review of governance and operational matters
- Assistance with meetings for members and other stakeholders
- Advising on political activities within CRA rules
- Facilitating foreign operations by Canadian not-for-profits and charities
- Employment matters
- Major agreements with donors and funders
- Legal and ethical issues with fundraising, gifts, and planned giving
- Partnerships, affiliations, and mergers
- Educational programs for boards, staff, and volunteers on legal and ethical issues
- Dissolution and Wind-Up
- Endowment Agreements
- Gift/Donation Agreements
- Establishment and maintenance of charitable trusts
- Establishment and maintenance of charitable foundations
Navigate Legislation with Ease
In the charity or not-for-profit world, staying ahead of legislative changes is key. Our team is here to ensure you remain compliant with all necessary regulations and requirements, including:
- Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA): Guidance on the latest regulations for Ontario-based not-for-profit corporations.
- Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (CNCA): Compliance support for federally incorporated not-for-profits.
- Corporations Information Act: Ensure your corporation stays up to date with its record keeping and reporting requirements.
- Income Tax Act: Crucial for organizations with charitable status to maintain tax compliance.
- Charities Accounting Act: Sound advice on accounting standards for charities.
- Trustee Act: Guidance on the responsibilities and duties of trustees.
Experience at All Levels of Government
Advising on government-related issues is one of our team’s strengths. Few firms in Southern Ontario outside Toronto have the depth of experience offered at Ross & McBride, especially in Hamilton’s vibrant non-profit sector. Our experience includes:
- Federal: Guiding organizations through CRA audits, tax compliance, and federal charitable policy.
- Provincial: Supporting PGT applications and navigating Ontario’s evolving legislative landscape.
- Municipal: Advising on affordable housing projects that require collaboration between all levels of government.
Contact Our Charities & Non-Profit Lawyers
Ready for next steps? Whether you need comprehensive support or simply have a few questions, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your organization and help you achieve your goals.
Our Lawyers
Our award-winning team is experienced, trusted, and committed to helping you
reach your goal, no matter the challenge.
David van der Woerd
Retired Partner | Founder, Charities & Not-for-Profit Law Group
A Legacy of Leadership in Charity & Not-for-Profit Law
Ross & McBride’s Charities & Not-for-Profit Law Group was built under the leadership of recently retired partner David van der Woerd, a respected leader in charity and not-for-profit law in Ontario.
In 2024, David was honoured by the Ontario Bar Association with the AMS/John Hodgson Award of Excellence in Charity and Not-for-Profit Law, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the development and practice of charity and not-for-profit law.
Today, the practice he helped build continues at Ross & McBride, providing charities and not-for-profit organizations with experienced legal guidance across a broad range of governance, regulatory and operational matters.
You’ll Always Be Connected to Your Primary Lawyer
If your case requires input from another practice group at Ross & McBride—such as Litigation or Business Law—rest assured your Charities & Not-for-Profit Law Group lawyer will continue to support you throughout the process. From start to finish, you’ll always have a dedicated point of contact on our team.