Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Chile

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SLF Abogados
Santiago, Chile

Founded in 2020
English
SLF Abogados operates as a Chilean law firm with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, focused on delivering fast and effective legal solutions for clients through experience and structured workflows. The firm emphasizes a technology-enabled approach to secure outcomes that align with the...
BF Legal
Viña del Mar, Chile

Founded in 2017
English
BF Legal is a Chilean law firm founded in 2017 by specialists in corporate law. Based in Viña del Mar, with offices in Viña del Mar and Concepción, the firm positions itself as external legal management for companies in the Quinta Región, proactively addressing labor, tax and contractual risks...
Insunza Abogados
Vitacura, Chile

Founded in 1923
8 people in their team
English
Insunza Abogados is a Chilean law firm known for handling high-stakes litigation and criminal defense. The practice concentrates on complex disputes and criminal defense, including economic crimes and white collar matters, representing individuals and corporate clients in Chile. The firm has been...
Las Condes, Chile

Founded in 2016
65 people in their team
English
DLA Piper Chile is a premier full-service business law firm based in Santiago, delivering comprehensive legal support to local and international clients across the Chilean market. The firm is recognized by leading publications for its depth in corporate, finance, and disputes work, and it maintains...
Paiva & CIA Intellecta
Providencia, Chile

Founded in 1997
English
Paiva & CIA Intellecta is a Chilean law firm with more than 27 years of experience, founded in 1997 by Gabriela Paiva Hantke. The firm specializes in the registration and protection of intellectual property, including trademarks, patents, designs, plant varieties, denomination of origin, domain...
Viña del Mar, Chile

Founded in 2023
English
Contraloría Privada specializes in legal risk management, compliance, data protection and cyber security with a regional footprint in Chile. The firm combines deep legal expertise with technology driven processes to help clients identify, assess and mitigate regulatory risk across their...

5 people in their team
English
V&G Abogados Tributarios is a Chilean law firm based in Concepción that provides integrated legal services across civil, corporate, criminal and tax matters, delivering comprehensive solutions to individuals and companies. The firm is led by Juan Pablo Valenzuela Oyarzo, a Magister in Derecho...

Founded in 2000
English
Abogados Laborales Brunaud & CIA is a Santiago-based law firm known for its litigation and advisory practice across civil, commercial, labor and penal matters. The firm combines specialist litigation experience with transactional and administrative work, advising both individuals and corporate...
Aylwin Matta Abogados
Las Condes, Chile

Founded in 1974
14 people in their team
English
Aylwin Matta Abogados traces its origins to Aylwin Abogados, founded in 1974, and since 2023 operates as Aylwin Matta with a focus on regulated markets, natural resources and energy. The firm represents corporate and public sector clients in Chile, delivering technically rigorous advice in...
Santa Cruz IP
Providencia, Chile

Founded in 2019
7 people in their team
English
Santa Cruz IP is a boutique law firm highly specialized in intellectual property, with active presence in Latin America, the United States and Europe. The firm was founded in 2019 by Maximiliano Santa Cruz S., after his distinguished career as an international negotiator and founder director of...
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About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in Chile

In Chile, nonprofit and charitable organizations play a significant role in addressing social issues and contributing to the community's welfare. These organizations are typically referred to as "corporaciones" (corporations) and "fundaciones" (foundations). They operate for non-commercial purposes, relying primarily on donations and volunteer assistance to fulfill their missions. Chilean law provides a legal framework for the formation, governance, and regulation of these organizations to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficient resource management.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance can be crucial for nonprofit and charitable organizations in several scenarios:

  • Establishment and Registration: Navigating the legal process of setting up a nonprofit, including drafting the bylaws and obtaining legal status.
  • Compliance and Governance: Ensuring adherence to local regulations, such as financial reporting requirements and governance standards.
  • Taxation: Understanding tax obligations and potential exemptions available for charitable organizations.
  • Contracts and Agreements: Drafting or reviewing contracts related to donations, partnerships, and employment.
  • Legal Disputes: Addressing conflicts that may arise, whether internal or with external parties.
  • Funding Opportunities: Navigating legal aspects of fundraising activities and ensuring compliance with donor requirements.

Local Laws Overview

The legal framework for nonprofits in Chile is outlined primarily in the Civil Code, which includes specific regulations for foundations and corporations. Some key aspects include:

  • Legal Personality: Nonprofits must register to gain legal personality, allowing them to function as legal entities.
  • Governance Structure: Organizations must establish a governing body, typically a board of directors, responsible for strategic oversight.
  • Reporting Requirements: Nonprofits are required to maintain and submit financial and activity reports to the relevant authorities periodically.
  • Public Benefit Purpose: Organizations must have a purpose that provides a public benefit and cannot distribute profits to members.
  • Tax Exemptions: Certain donations to nonprofits may qualify for tax exemptions, encouraging charitable contributions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a foundation and a corporation in Chile?

Foundations are established based on an endowment for a particular purpose, while corporations are formed by a group of individuals. Both serve nonprofit purposes but differ in their formation and operational structure.

How do I register a nonprofit organization in Chile?

The process involves drafting bylaws, registering with the Civil Registry, and obtaining legal personality. Legal assistance is often recommended to navigate this process efficiently.

Are donations to nonprofits tax-deductible in Chile?

Yes, donations to registered nonprofits can be tax-deductible, encouraging individuals and corporations to contribute.

What reports are required from nonprofits in Chile?

Nonprofits must submit annual financial and activity reports to demonstrate transparency and accountability to regulators and the public.

Can a nonprofit engage in commercial activities?

Yes, as long as the commercial activities are directly related to its mission and the profits are reinvested into the organization’s charitable activities.

What are the governance requirements for nonprofits?

Nonprofits must establish a governing board responsible for strategic oversight and ensuring the organization's activities align with its mission.

How can a nonprofit lose its legal status?

Organizations risk losing their legal status for reasons such as failing to submit required reports, engaging in prohibited activities, or breaching governance standards.

Can foreigners establish nonprofits in Chile?

Yes, foreigners can establish and participate in nonprofit organizations, provided they comply with Chilean regulations and procedures.

What legal protections are available for nonprofits?

Chilean law provides various legal protections, ensuring compliance and addressing issues like liability and intellectual property within the scope of their nonprofit activities.

Is it necessary to hire a lawyer to establish a nonprofit?

While not mandatory, hiring a lawyer is highly advisable to ensure compliance with legal requirements and to facilitate the process of establishment and operation.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • Ministerio de Justicia de Chile: Oversees the registration and regulation of nonprofit entities.
  • SENAFI (Servicio Nacional de Fundaciones e Instituciones de Beneficencia): Provides regulatory guidance and resources for foundations and charities.
  • Local Bar Associations: Can connect you with lawyers specializing in nonprofit law.

Next Steps

If you are considering setting up or require legal assistance for a nonprofit in Chile, start by consulting with a lawyer who specializes in this field. They can guide you through the nuances of Chilean law, help establish your organization legally, and ensure ongoing compliance. Use local resources like bar associations to find qualified legal professionals. Be prepared with a clear vision and purpose for your organization, as this will streamline the legal process and help align your activities with regulatory expectations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Chile through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.