Best Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Lawyers in Jamaica

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:


Founded in 2016
English
Established in 2016, Priscilla Duhaney, Attorney-at-Law (PD LAW) is a distinguished legal practice located in Portmore, St. Catherine, Jamaica. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across various sectors, including conveyancing, corporate and commercial law, civil litigation, family law,...
Westinson Law
May Pen, Jamaica

Founded in 1948
English
Westinson Law PE, formerly known as John L. Jackson & Co., is a full-service boutique law firm with offices in Jamaica and Saint Christopher (Kitts) and Nevis. Established in 1948 by John Lea Jackson, the firm has a longstanding tradition of delivering sound legal advice. Its primary practice areas...
Palmer & Associates
Kingston, Jamaica

Founded in 2001
English
Palmer & Associates is a Jamaica-based accounting, tax and business services firm that supports small and medium sized enterprises with practical financial solutions, including auditing, accounting, taxation and management reporting.Founded by Donald J. Palmer in 2001, the firm has earned a...
PeterMc & Associates
Morant Bay, Jamaica

3 people in their team
English
PeterMc & Associates is a Jamaican law firm with multiple offices serving clients in Mandeville, Kingston, May Pen and Morant Bay, offering local presence across several parishes. The firm handles a range of matters including commercial and corporate work, real estate transactions, criminal and...
Brown, Findley & Company
Kingston, Jamaica

Founded in 2005
English
Brown, Findley & Co. is a Jamaica based law firm specialising in real estate and commercial matters, with a client base that includes private individuals and businesses. The firm provides conveyancing, sale and purchase of land, first registrations, adverse possession applications and related real...

Founded in 1929
200 people in their team
English
Professional, Proficient & CourteousWe are committed to providing high-quality professional services atreasonable rates, maintaining at all times professional, proficient and courteous service with a committed staff constantly striving to excel.Who We AreNunes, Scholefield, DeLeon & Co. is...
Allison Brown & Associates
Kingston, Jamaica

English
Allison Brown & Associates is a distinguished law firm in Jamaica, specializing in Family Law, Corporate Law, and Property Law. The firm offers comprehensive legal services, including corporate governance, business formation, contract negotiation, divorce proceedings, child custody matters, real...

English
Shuana-Kaye A. Smith & Associates (SASA) is a Kingston, Jamaica based law firm known for a client focused approach and professional excellence. The firm emphasises accessibility, transparency and effective communication, ensuring clients understand each step of their matter and feel supported...
CLINTON HART & CO.
Kingston, Jamaica

Founded in 1962
5 people in their team
English
Clinton Hart & Co. Attorneys-At-Law is a Kingston, Jamaica based law firm with a long standing professional heritage dating back to 1962. The firm provides a full service legal practice with an emphasis on corporate and commercial law, banking and finance, real estate, conveyancing, contracts,...
AS SEEN ON

About Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations Law in Jamaica

Nonprofit and charitable organizations in Jamaica play a pivotal role in addressing social issues, promoting cultural activities, and providing essential services to underserved populations. Legally, these organizations are governed by specific laws that define their operations, responsibilities, and tax obligations. Establishing a nonprofit organization in Jamaica typically involves registering as an entity either under the Companies Act or the Charitable Organizations (Tax Harmonization) Act. It is imperative for these organizations to comply with local regulations regarding their operations, financial reporting, and fundraising activities to maintain their legal status and benefit from tax exemptions.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice is crucial at various stages of managing a nonprofit or charitable organization. Some common scenarios include starting a new organization and needing guidance on the registration process, understanding regulatory compliance, or restructuring an existing organization. Legal assistance is also advisable for managing governance issues, drafting or reviewing contracts, dealing with employment laws, or resolving disputes. Furthermore, organizations engaged in fundraising or charitable activities need to ensure compliance with relevant laws to avoid legal liabilities or penalties.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local laws relevant to nonprofit and charitable organizations in Jamaica encompass their registration, governance, and tax obligations. The Companies Act and the Charitable Organizations (Tax Harmonization) Act outline the procedures for registering these entities, including requirements for articles of incorporation, bylaws, and board member responsibilities. The laws also stipulate standards for transparency and accountability, mandating regular financial reporting and adherence to specific operational guidelines. Compliance with the Income Tax Act can make these organizations eligible for tax exemptions or deductions, provided they follow the stipulated conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What legal status can a nonprofit organization have in Jamaica?

Nonprofit organizations in Jamaica can register as a company limited by guarantee or as a society under the Friendly Societies Act, depending on their purpose and operational structure.

2. Are nonprofit organizations in Jamaica subject to taxation?

Generally, nonprofit organizations in Jamaica can qualify for tax-exempt status if they meet certain criteria under the Charitable Organizations (Tax Harmonization) Act and the Income Tax Act.

3. What are the key elements of proper governance for nonprofits in Jamaica?

Proper governance involves adhering to a set structure that includes a board of directors, regular meetings, detailed record-keeping, transparency, and accountability in financial matters.

4. How does a nonprofit organization qualify for charitable status?

An organization must apply to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue and demonstrate that its activities align with the charitable purposes defined under the Charitable Organizations Act.

5. What are the responsibilities of the board of directors in a nonprofit?

The board of directors is responsible for overseeing the organization’s operations, ensuring legal compliance, effective financial management, and strategic decision-making.

6. Can a nonprofit organization in Jamaica engage in commercial activities?

Yes, a nonprofit can engage in commercial activities, provided that the profits are used towards the organization’s primary objectives and not distributed among members.

7. What steps are involved in dissolving a nonprofit organization?

Dissolving a nonprofit involves legal procedures including settling debts, distributing remaining assets according to bylaws, and filing necessary documentation with the Registrar of Companies.

8. How can a nonprofit organization maintain compliance with local laws?

Compliance can be maintained through regular filings with statutory bodies, transparent financial reporting, governance audits, and adherence to the purpose-driven use of funds.

9. Are there special considerations for foreign nonprofit organizations operating in Jamaica?

Foreign nonprofits must register with the Companies Office of Jamaica and ensure compliance with local laws, which may include partnership or collaboration with local bodies.

10. What is a charitable trust, and how does it differ from a nonprofit organization?

A charitable trust involves funds or assets managed in a trust for charitable purposes, whereas a nonprofit organization operates as an entity with broader activities.

Additional Resources

Key resources for those seeking guidance include the Companies Office of Jamaica for registration details, the Tax Administration Jamaica for tax-related inquiries, and the Council of Voluntary Social Services for networking and support within the sector. Additionally, the Jamaica National Council for Voluntary Organisations can provide valuable insights and assistance.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance, consider consulting with an attorney specializing in nonprofit and charitable organizations law. Begin by preparing all necessary documents relevant to your organization's situation. Reach out to professional networks or legal aid organizations for referrals to experienced lawyers in this field. Always ensure that your legal advisor is informed about the latest changes in legislation regarding nonprofit laws in Jamaica. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your organization remains compliant and effective in achieving its mission.

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

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Jamaica — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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.