Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Finland

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Asianajotoimisto Artimo & Co
Jyväskylä, Finland

Founded in 2005
4 people in their team
English
Artimo & Co is a Jyvaeskylae based full service law firm that serves private individuals, public entities and companies. The firm delivers professional service grounded in experience and ongoing training, following sound professional practice. All assignments are handled with strict...
Justeria Law Firm
Espoo, Finland

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Finnish
English
Swedish
JusteriaJusteria Oy is a legal affairs office specializing in business jurisprudence for small and medium-sized companies. We assist companies and their owners, e.g. in matters of contract law, questions related to company and tax law, and business arrangements. We also handle lawsuits and...

English
Asianajotoimisto Tatu Pylvänäinen Oy provides general legal services to private individuals and businesses, handling assignments in most areas of law. The practice focuses on litigation, criminal matters, corporate affairs, employment matters, civil disputes across different areas, as well as...

Founded in 2024
1 person in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Aki Aapio Oy is a Finland-based law firm offering solution-oriented advocacy across Finland, with offices in Vaasa, Seinäjoki and Helsinki. The firm represents both corporate and private clients and handles matters that range from drafting complex commercial agreements to...

Founded in 2011
73 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto DLA Piper Finland Oy operates as the Finnish arm of the global DLA Piper network, providing full service corporate and commercial legal advice to companies and public sector clients. The team handles corporate governance, cross-border transactions, commercial contracts and...
Markelin & Somppi
Helsinki, Finland

5 people in their team
English
Markelin & Somppi Oy is a Finnish law firm delivering focused counsel to individuals and businesses across Helsinki and Western Finland. The practice encompasses family law, real estate matters, tax planning and dispute resolution, supported by a team that combines in depth legal knowledge with...
Attorneys Mika Ala-Uotila Oy
Tampere, Finland

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Finnish
Swedish
English
Advocacy respecting traditionsFrom our law firm, you can get multidisciplinary and solid know-how and friendly service, especially in housing trade, real estate and construction contract disputes, environmental matters as well as company, bankruptcy and restructuring matters, litigation and...

5 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Jari Hytti Ky is a Tampere based boutique law firm that serves corporate clients and individuals with practical, results oriented legal counsel. The practice areas include corporate and commercial matters, real estate, disputes and cross border advisory, with services available in...
Castrén & Snellman
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1888
500 people in their team
Finnish
English
OverviewOur mission is to help our clients build sustainable success stories. We are a reliable partner in transactions, dispute resolution and a wide range of other specialised facets of business law.Decades of supporting our clients’ success have enabled us to grow into a firm of over 280...
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About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in Finland

In Finland, nonprofit and charitable organizations are entities that operate to serve public interests rather than to make a profit. They include associations, foundations, and religious congregations. These organizations are governed by specific regulations that ensure their operations align with public benefit objectives. Finnish law provides a structured framework for forming, managing, and funding these organizations, emphasizing transparency and accountability.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice is often necessary in the nonprofit sector to navigate complex regulatory requirements. Common situations where legal assistance may be needed include:

  • Setting up a new nonprofit organization and understanding the legal requirements for registration.
  • Drafting and reviewing contracts or agreements to ensure they comply with Finnish laws.
  • Handling disputes related to governance or management of the organization.
  • Ensuring compliance with financial reporting and tax obligations.
  • Changing the legal structure or objectives of an organization.
  • Merging with another organization or winding up operations.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local laws relevant to nonprofit and charitable organizations in Finland include:

  • The Associations Act, which regulates the formation, registration, and duties of associations.
  • The Foundations Act, which governs foundations that aim to manage assets for specified purposes.
  • Tax regulations that apply to nonprofits, including the criteria for tax exemptions.
  • Fundraising laws that dictate how organizations can collect funds from the public.
  • Employment laws relevant to nonprofits that employ staff.
  • Data protection laws ensuring compliance with EU GDPR regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an association and a foundation in Finland?

An association is a group of people with a common purpose, whereas a foundation is an organization with a purpose determined by its founder, often related to managing assets for a specific benefit.

How do I register a nonprofit organization in Finland?

To register a nonprofit, you must submit an application to the Finnish Patent and Registration Office along with required documentation like a charter and bylaws.

Are nonprofits in Finland exempt from taxes?

Nonprofits may be eligible for tax exemptions, but it depends on their activities and whether they serve the public interest as defined by Finnish tax laws.

Can foreign nationals establish a nonprofit in Finland?

Yes, foreign nationals can establish nonprofits in Finland, but they must abide by local laws and regulations during registration and operation.

What financial reporting is required for nonprofits?

Nonprofits in Finland must maintain transparent financial records and submit annual financial statements to authorities as required by law.

Are there restrictions on how nonprofits can raise funds?

Yes, fundraising activities must comply with local fundraising laws, and organizations should ensure proper legal structures are in place for financial management.

How can a nonprofit ensure compliance with data protection laws?

Nonprofits must adhere to GDPR regulations, ensuring they have processes to protect personal data and manage consent effectively.

What are common legal issues nonprofits in Finland face?

Common issues include management disputes, employment law compliance, improper use of funds, and tax-related challenges.

Can a nonprofit in Finland engage in commercial activities?

Yes, but such activities should support the nonprofit's objectives, and profits must be used for the nonprofit’s mission rather than distributed to members.

What should be included in the bylaws of a nonprofit organization?

Bylaws should outline the organization’s purpose, membership criteria, management structure, financial management policies, and procedures for making amendments.

Additional Resources

For more information, individuals can consult the following resources:

  • The Finnish Patent and Registration Office: Provides guidelines on forming and managing nonprofit organizations.
  • The Finnish Tax Administration: Offers information on tax regulations and exemptions for nonprofits.
  • Local nonprofit NGOs and legal aid services that specialize in providing advice to the nonprofit sector.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a nonprofit organization, consider the following steps:

  • Identify the specific legal issue and gather all relevant documentation.
  • Research legal professionals or law firms in Finland specializing in nonprofit and charitable organizations.
  • Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and understand available legal strategies.
  • Ensure any chosen legal service provider is reputable and experienced in nonprofit laws.

With the right guidance, navigating the legal complexities of nonprofit and charitable organizations in Finland can become manageable and efficient.

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