LAW 473 - Non-Profit Law Practice

Nonprofit organizations are an influential and significant sector in America. They range from small volunteer organizations to large corporations. This course will concentrate on understanding the unique tax and legal concepts applicable to non-profit organizations as well as the practical procedures utilized in forming a nonprofit, operating and governing a successful nonprofit, dealing with nonprofit tax, business and fundraising issues, understanding the state and federal regulation of nonprofits and, finally, effectuating the merger or dissolution of a nonprofit organization. The principal objective on this course is to introduce the law student to the world of nonprofit law so that as a lawyer, he or she can be prepared for an active role in establishing, advising, serving on the board or even working as in-house counsel for a nonprofit organization. Classes will be a combination of lectures, discussions, preparation of documents, group problem solving, and evaluation of solutions to actual practice queries. Grading criteria for the course will include participation, assignment and project/memo preparation, and a final examination. Regular attendance is required.