Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Helsinki

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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...
Properta Asianajotoimisto Oy
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 2016
25 people in their team
English
Properta Asianajotoimisto Oy is a Helsinki based law firm internationally recognised for top tier expertise in intellectual property and real estate law. The IP practice focuses on protecting IP rights, licensing and enforcement, while the real estate team supports complex property transactions,...
Krogerus
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1993
200 people in their team
Finnish
English
Over a hundred different handshakes, one thing in common.Every handshake is unique. So is every one of our lawyers. Law has always been - and always will be - a people’s business. That’s why we only employ the most talented, ambitious and genuine people. We all share one common goal: to find...
Asianajotoimisto Impola Oy
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 2000
3 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Impola Oy is a Finnish law firm established in 2000 and based in Helsinki, offering a broad spectrum of legal services to corporate and private clients across Finland and abroad. The firm emphasizes confidential and loyal client relationships and delivers precise legal work while...
Streng Law Firm
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Finnish
English
Law firm Streng serves as follows:The first telephone or e-mail consultation is free of charge.We map out your need for legal assistance and your possibility of receiving state-sponsored legal assistance or compensation from your legal protection insurance.We are located in Helsinki, Katajanokka....
Asianajotoimisto Halonen Oy
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1993
English
Asianajotoimisto Halonen Oy is a Helsinki-based Finnish law firm that specializes in dispute resolution. The firm was founded in 1993 and has been a member of the Finnish Bar Association since 1995. It handles civil and criminal proceedings, settlements, and various dispute resolution procedures,...
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...

Founded in 2007
3 people in their team
English
Asianajotoimisto Advoline Oy - Helsinki is a Helsinki based law firm offering expertise in criminal defense, civil disputes, and corporate counsel for individuals and small to mid sized businesses. The firm is led by founder and managing partner Tatu Henriksson, who combines courtroom experience...
Kuusivaara
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 1998
10 people in their team
Finnish
English
OverviewWe are a law firm specializing in litigation. Our specialty is labor disputes. We also handle other aspects of helping citizens, such as family and inheritance law matters and criminal cases. Recently, disputes related to the compensation scope of various insurances, the right of recourse...
Uudenmaan Lakimiehet Oy
Helsinki, Finland

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Finnish
English
Uudenmaa Lakimiehet Oy is a full-service law office in HelsinkiOur legal office offers comprehensive legal services for legal assistance and advice. Uudenmaa Lakimiehet Oy handles with solid professional skills legal advice, handling trials, preparing complaints, drawing up documents, assisting in...
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About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in Helsinki, Finland

Nonprofit and charitable organizations play a vital role in Helsinki, Finland, by addressing various social, cultural, educational, and environmental needs. These entities are regulated under specific legal frameworks that ensure they operate transparently and efficiently while fulfilling their missions. In Helsinki, nonprofits can be established as associations, foundations, or various other organizational forms depending on their activities and objectives. Each form has specific regulatory requirements regarding establishment, governance, taxation, and reporting.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging with the legal aspects of nonprofit and charitable organizations can be complex and may necessitate professional legal assistance. Common situations where you may need a lawyer include:

  • Establishing a new nonprofit or charitable organization and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
  • Amending organizational bylaws or constitutive documents to accommodate growth or changes in mission.
  • Resolving disputes within the organization or with third parties.
  • Navigating mergers, collaborations, or partnerships with other entities.
  • Managing employment and volunteer relations while ensuring compliance with Finnish labor laws.
  • Dealing with regulatory investigations or legal challenges.
  • Ensuring correct tax treatment and maintaining exempt status where applicable.

Local Laws Overview

The legal environment for nonprofit and charitable organizations in Helsinki is primarily governed by the Finnish Associations Act (503/1989) for associations and the Foundations Act (487/2015) for foundations. Key aspects include:

  • Formation and Registration: Associations must register with the Finnish Patent and Registration Office. Foundational documents and board member details must be provided.
  • Governance: Rules around board responsibilities, general meetings, and member rights ensure transparent and effective management.
  • Financial Reporting: Nonprofits are required to maintain accurate financial records and submit annual reports to ensure accountability.
  • Taxation: While many nonprofits enjoy income tax exemption, they must comply with taxation rules specific to their operation, including VAT if applicable.
  • Public Benefits and Grants: Organizations can apply for public grants, requiring compliance with specific rules to maintain eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

An association is a membership-based organization, while a foundation is asset-based and typically supports causes through grants.

How can I register a nonprofit organization in Helsinki?

The registration requires submitting foundational documents and other necessary information to the Finnish Patent and Registration Office.

Are nonprofit organizations in Helsinki required to pay taxes?

While many are tax-exempt on income directly related to their nonprofit activities, they may be liable for VAT and other taxes depending on ancillary operations.

Can foreigners establish a nonprofit in Finland?

Yes, but at least one member of the organization’s board must reside in an EEA country.

What ongoing compliance is required for a nonprofit in Helsinki?

Nonprofits must adhere to governance standards, submit annual reports, and maintain accurate financial records.

How can a nonprofit ensure its tax-exempt status?

By ensuring its activities comply with the requirements for public benefit purposes and fulfilling all disclosure and reporting obligations.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with local nonprofit laws?

Non-compliance can lead to fines, loss of tax-exempt status, and in severe cases, dissolution of the organization.

How can a nonprofit organization receive funding in Helsinki?

Funding can be acquired through public grants, private donations, and possibly through revenue-generating activities that align with its mission.

Is it possible to convert an association into a foundation?

While possible, this involves significant legal restructuring and may be complex. Legal advice is essential.

What resources are available for board members of nonprofits?

Training programs and resources are offered by organizations such as the Finnish Association for Nonprofit Organizations to enhance governance capabilities.

Additional Resources

For further support and information, consider the following resources:

  • The Finnish Patent and Registration Office
  • The Ministry of Justice - Finland
  • Finnish Association for Nonprofit Organizations
  • The Finnish Tax Administration for tax-related queries

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with nonprofit and charitable organizations in Helsinki, consider the following steps:

  • Schedule a consultation with a lawyer specializing in nonprofit law to discuss your specific needs and concerns.
  • Gather all necessary documentation and information about your organization's goals, structure, and current compliance status.
  • Familiarize yourself with the basic legal requirements relevant to your organization’s activities in Finland.
  • Explore membership in nonprofit associations or networks that can offer additional support and guidance.

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