Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Chile

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English
Estudio Jurídico EMPRESA ESCRITORIO is a Chilean law firm based in Las Condes, Santiago, that focuses on advising startups, small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs. The team is described on its site as a multidisciplinary group composed mainly of lawyers with experience in commercial law,...
Iquique, Chile

English
Díaz & Colombo Abogados is a law firm based in Iquique, Chile, offering practical legal solutions through a focused practice in labor, family, criminal, contractual and administrative matters. The team serves clients in the Norte Grande region with a commitment to clarity, accessibility and...
Ciudad Legal
Valparaíso, Chile

Founded in 2010
English
Ciudad Legal, founded in 2010 by Antón Carrasco Guzmán, is a Valparaíso-based Chilean law firm specializing in complex criminal defense and high-stakes litigation. The firm combines strategic litigation design with rigorous courtroom advocacy to address violent, sexual and economic crimes, as...
Viña del Mar, Chile

Founded in 2021
4 people in their team
English
Altamar Asociados is a Chilean law firm that combines legal and accounting expertise to deliver integrated advisory services to companies and entrepreneurs across commercial, civil, labor and trademark matters.The firm has earned a growing reputation for practical, preventive counsel and client...
Araya & Cía Abogados
Providencia, Chile

Founded in 2004
56 people in their team
English
Araya & Cía Abogados is a Chilean law firm founded in 2004 that has built a strong reputation for advising the agribusiness and export sectors across Latin America. The practice focuses on corporate and commercial matters, international trade, and regulatory compliance for agricultural clients...
Vásquez Urra Abogados
Las Condes, Chile

Founded in 2019
8 people in their team
English
Vásquez Urra Abogados is a Chilean law firm that specializes in dispute resolution, with a strong emphasis on negotiation, mediation and arbitration in both Chile and international contexts. The firm handles high-complexity commercial disputes across sectors such as engineering and construction,...
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...

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...
LamaAbogados
Las Condes, Chile

English
Lama Abogados is a Chilean law firm delivering sophisticated guidance in labor, corporate and real estate matters. The firm serves employers and employees with strategic advisory, compliance programs, and robust dispute resolution capabilities, supported by a multidisciplinary team with extensive...
Abogados Iusva
Iquique, Chile

English
Abogados Iusva is a Chilean law firm known for delivering practical legal advice to individuals and businesses. The firm focuses on helping clients navigate complex regulatory environments, structure transactions, and resolve disputes with efficiency and clarity.With a client-centered approach, the...
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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.