NGOs Legal Consultancy

1. Formation and Registration

• • Legal Structure: Advising on the most suitable legal structure for the NGO, such as a trust, society, or non-profit company.
  • Registration Process: Assisting with the registration process with relevant authorities, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) for non-profit companies, or the Registrar of Societies for societies.
  • Drafting Constitutive Documents: Preparing constitutive documents such as the memorandum of association, articles of association, trust deeds, and by-laws.

2. Regulatory Compliance

• • Statutory Filings: Ensuring timely and accurate filings with regulatory bodies, including annual returns, financial statements, and reports.
  • Licenses and Approvals: Assisting with obtaining necessary licenses and approvals from government authorities, such as the Economic Affairs Division (EAD) for foreign funding.
  • Tax Exemptions: Advising on and assisting with applications for tax exemptions and charitable status under relevant tax laws.

3. Governance and Administration

• • Board Management: Advising on the roles and responsibilities of board members, including compliance with corporate governance best practices.
  • Policy Development: Developing and implementing internal policies on matters such as conflict of interest, whistleblowing, and financial management.
  • Training: Providing training for board members and staff on legal compliance and governance issues.

4. Contracts and Agreements

• • Drafting and Reviewing: Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating various contracts and agreements, including partnership agreements, grant agreements, service contracts, and MOUs.
  • Risk Management: Advising on risk management strategies and contractual protections to mitigate legal risks.

5. Employment and Labor Law

• • Employment Contracts: Drafting and reviewing employment contracts, staff handbooks, and workplace policies.
  • Compliance: Ensuring compliance with labor laws, including minimum wage regulations, working hours, and employee benefits.
  • Dispute Resolution: Representing the NGO in labor disputes and negotiations with employees or trade unions.

6. Funding and Financial Management

• • Grant Compliance: Advising on compliance with donor requirements and conditions attached to grants and funding.
  • Financial Reporting: Assisting with financial reporting requirements and ensuring transparency in financial management.
  • Fundraising Regulations: Advising on legal aspects of fundraising activities and compliance with relevant laws.

7. Intellectual Property

• • IP Protection: Advising on the protection of intellectual property, such as trademarks and copyrights, related to the NGO’s name, logo, publications, and programs.
  • Registration: Assisting with the registration of intellectual property rights.

8. Dispute Resolution

• • Mediation and Arbitration: Advising on alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and arbitration to resolve conflicts amicably.
  • Litigation: Representing the NGO in litigation if necessary, including court proceedings and administrative hearings.

Selecting a Legal Consultancy for NGOs:

When selecting a legal consultancy for an NGO in Islamabad, consider the following factors:

1. 1. Experience and Expertise: Look for consultancies with experience in NGO law and a track record of working with non-profit organizations.
   2. Specialization: Ensure the consultancy specializes in areas relevant to NGO operations, such as compliance, governance, and fundraising.
   3. Reputation: Check the consultancy’s reputation through client testimonials, reviews, and professional networks.
   4. Accessibility: Choose a consultancy that is accessible and responsive, offering timely and practical advice.
   5. Cost: Consider the fee structure and ensure it aligns with the NGO’s budget while providing value for the services rendered.