Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Austria

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9 people in their team
English
Rechtsanwälte Dr. Erich Moser und Dr. Martin Moser is a Murau-based law firm offering comprehensive legal services across civil, criminal and administrative law. The partnership comprises Dr. Erich Moser, who has practiced in Murau since April 1993, and Dr. Martin Moser, admitted in May 2018, and...
HBA Lawyers
Graz, Austria

Founded in 1989
200 people in their team
German
English
We support companies, private individuals and the public sector in all legal matters. Long-term and ad hoc.Strategic and operational.We want to provide you with outstanding legal quality and we want you to measure us against this. We only pursue economically viable solutions: consistently and with...

12 people in their team
English
Based in Kitzbühel, Kneissl Tuncer Ebermayer Rechtsanwälte GmbH provides integrated legal services across real estate, corporate and civil law. The firm combines deep technical expertise with a practical, client oriented approach, delivering tailored legal strategies for businesses, developers...
KAIBLINGER Rechtsanwalts GmbH
Gunskirchen, Austria

Founded in 2019
8 people in their team
English
KAIBLINGER Rechtsanwalts GmbH is a well established Austrian law firm based in Gunskirchen, Oberosterreich, specializing in real estate, corporate and commercial matters, civil disputes and criminal defense. The practice combines deep technical knowledge with practical problem solving, drawing on...
PACHER & PARTNER
Vienna, Austria

Founded in 1957
50 people in their team
German
English
Founded in 1957 as a civil law firm, we have continually expanded our field of activity by bringing on new partners.Our team brings together a wide range of personalities with different professional specializations. As a modern business law firm, we place particular emphasis on the highest legal...

English
Puchner Streitmayer Rechtsanwälte is a well established law firm in Leoben, Austria, led by Dr. Christian Puchner and Mag. Martin Streitmayer. The firm blends long standing experience with innovation and collaborates with tax advisors, notaries and public authorities to deliver comprehensive...
Dr. Stefan Nenning
Steyr, Austria

Founded in 2006
5 people in their team
English
Nenning & Tockner Rechtsanwälte, based in Steyr, Upper Austria, delivers integrated legal counsel for businesses and individuals. Led by Dr. Stefan Nenning and Mag. Jorg Tockner, the firm focuses on corporate and commercial law, legal business consulting, intellectual property, environmental and...

Founded in 2019
English
Rechtsanwaltskanzlei Mag. Martin Baumgartner, established in 2019, is centrally located in Fürstenfeld's historic Austria Tabakwerke, now home to the Gesundheitszentrum Thermenland. The firm offers a modern and welcoming environment, featuring a permanent exhibition of artist Slava Mohl's works,...

7 people in their team
English
Hämmerle & Hämmerle Rechtsanwälte GmbH operates from Rottenmann and Irdning in Austria, offering a broad spectrum of legal services with a focus on corporate, insolvency, family and criminal law. The firm is led by Mag. Michaela Hämmerle and Mag. Andreas Hämmerle as managing partners,...
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About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in Austria

Nonprofit and charitable organizations in Austria play a crucial role in addressing social needs and fostering community development. The legal framework governing these organizations is designed to ensure their proper administration, transparency, and accountability. Laws related to nonprofit organizations typically cover areas such as formation, operation, tax obligations, and reporting requirements. Understanding these laws is essential for compliance and achieving the intended social objectives.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While establishing and operating a nonprofit or charitable organization in Austria can be fulfilling, it can also be fraught with legal complexities. Here are common situations where legal advice may be necessary:

  • Formation and Registration: Establishing a nonprofit involves selecting the appropriate legal structure and registering with the correct authorities.
  • Taxation Issues: Navigating the tax-exempt status and complying with tax laws can require specialized knowledge.
  • Contracts and Agreements: Drafting and reviewing contracts with donors, partners, and employees to ensure legal compliance and protection.
  • Governance: Understanding and implementing effective governance structures and policies to meet legal standards and organizational goals.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring ongoing compliance with regulations, including financial reporting and operational requirements.

Local Laws Overview

In Austria, the legal landscape for nonprofit and charitable organizations is primarily influenced by the Austrian Association Act and various tax laws. Key aspects include:

  • Legal Forms: Nonprofits can be established as associations, foundations, or limited liability companies, each with distinct legal implications.
  • Registration Requirements: Associations must register with the competent local authority, while foundations are established through a notarial deed.
  • Tax Exemptions: Nonprofits may qualify for tax-exempt status, provided they meet specific criteria and register with tax authorities.
  • Annual Reporting: Organizations are required to maintain accurate financial records and submit annual reports to demonstrate accountability.
  • Governance Structures: There are requirements regarding the governing bodies, such as a board of directors, and their operational protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of legal structures are available for nonprofits in Austria?

In Austria, nonprofits can be established as associations, foundations, or non-profit limited liability companies, each offering different governance and operational frameworks.

2. Are nonprofit organizations automatically tax-exempt in Austria?

No, nonprofit organizations are not automatically tax-exempt. They must apply and qualify for tax-exempt status by meeting certain criteria and registering with the appropriate tax authorities.

3. What is the process for registering a nonprofit association in Austria?

To register a nonprofit association, the founding members must draft statutes and submit them to the local authority along with the registration application.

4. Can a nonprofit in Austria engage in commercial activities?

Yes, a nonprofit can engage in commercial activities as long as the profits are used to further the organization’s charitable mission and the activities do not jeopardize their tax-exempt status.

5. What are the governance requirements for nonprofits in Austria?

Nonprofits must have a governing body such as a board of directors, with clearly outlined roles, responsibilities, and operational procedures in compliance with their legal structure.

6. How often must nonprofits report their financial activities?

Nonprofits are generally required to maintain accurate financial records and provide annual reports to ensure transparency and compliance with legal requirements.

7. What happens if a nonprofit fails to comply with legal requirements in Austria?

Noncompliance can result in fines, the revocation of tax-exempt status, and in severe cases, dissolution of the organization.

8. Can individuals be personally liable for the actions of a nonprofit?

Typically, individual members or directors have limited liability, but they can be held personally liable for negligent or illegal actions.

9. Are there specific laws governing charity fundraising activities?

Yes, fundraising activities must comply with the legal framework, ensuring transparency and preventing fraudulent practices.

10. How can a nonprofit dissolve if it no longer serves its purpose?

The dissolution process depends on the nonprofit's legal structure and involves settling liabilities, distributing remaining assets, and notifying relevant authorities.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or assistance, the following resources may be useful:

  • Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF): Offers guidance on tax-related matters for nonprofit organizations.
  • Chamber of Commerce Austria (WKO): Provides legal information and support for business and nonprofit entities.
  • Nonprofit-Organisationsgesellschaft: Offers resources and advice on nonprofit management and operations.
  • Local Bar Associations: Can help you find qualified lawyers specializing in nonprofit law.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with your nonprofit or charitable organization in Austria, consider the following steps:

  1. Identify Your Needs: Clearly outline the legal issues or questions you are facing.
  2. Contact Professionals: Reach out to legal experts specializing in nonprofit law for advice and assistance.
  3. Prepare Documentation: Gather any necessary documents and information pertinent to your legal query.
  4. Schedule Consultations: Arrange meetings or calls with lawyers to discuss your situation and explore solutions.
  5. Follow Up: Implement the legal recommendations provided by your lawyer and ensure ongoing compliance with relevant laws.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Austria 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.