Nonprofit Representation

Since the firm’s founding over a century ago, nonprofit organizations have sought our counsel. As is often the case at Hemenway & Barnes, we frequently begin by helping with an initial issue, and then develop a close, trusting long-term relationship. We represent a diverse group of tax-exempt institutions across New England and beyond, ranging in size and complexity from modest to some of the largest nonprofit institutions in the region, including:

• Colleges and universities
• Cultural and performing arts centers
• Religious organizations
• Hospitals and healthcare plans
• Private foundations and charitable trusts
• Community foundations
• Donor advised funds (DAFs)
• Publicly supported entities with a broad range of purposes and operations
• Human services providers, including Community Action Agencies

In addition, many of Hemenway & Barnes' professionals serve as directors and trustees of charitable organizations. This gives us valuable insight on and deep understanding of the issues faced by our nonprofit clients.

Nonprofits and foundations rely on us for counsel on a range of issues, including:

• Corporate issues and governance
• Formation and transactions
• Charitable giving
• Tax-exempt planning
• Political activity and government relations
• Real estate, including conservation
• General counsel and employment
• Beneficial interests in estates and trusts
• Private foundation and endowment management
• Controversies and litigation