Before looking for a lawyer, write down the issue, the deadline, and the help you need. A contract review, employment concern, tax question, and government investigation may require different expertise. Start early when possible. If a deadline or immediate harm is involved, say so in your first inquiry.

Prepare a concise request

Write a short description of the organization, its tax status, where it operates, and the legal question. List the parties involved so a lawyer can check for conflicts. Note any deadline and how it was set. Identify whether you need advice, document review, negotiation, or representation; avoid assuming that an introductory consultation includes all of these services.

Gather relevant records, but do not send a large archive or sensitive participant information with an initial inquiry. Ask the provider what it needs and how to transmit it securely. Intake forms and informal conversations do not automatically establish an attorney-client relationship or protect every communication as privileged.

Explore nonprofit legal assistance networks

We The Action connects nonprofits with volunteer lawyers. Define a manageable project and check current eligibility and intake requirements. Free support may depend on subject matter, conflicts, capacity, and timing, so do not let an approaching deadline depend on an unconfirmed match.

The United for Freedoms Legal Defense Fund is a resource to explore for legal support and assistance with legal costs. Review its current scope and application requirements before assuming your issue or expenses will qualify.

The Democracy Protection Network coordinates assistance for eligible organizations and individuals. Its application describes the types of support available; submitting an application does not itself establish representation. A state nonprofit association may also help identify local referrals and nonprofit expertise.

Confirm the relationship and the next step

Before relying on a lawyer to act, confirm who the client is, the scope of work, fees or pro bono terms, who will communicate with the lawyer, and who is responsible for deadlines. Ask whether specialist or local counsel is needed. Make sure the board or authorized leader understands decisions that require organizational approval.

Keep the engagement documents and agreed action list in a controlled location. Separate legal advice from broader communications planning as counsel recommends. If the matter becomes public, coordinate factual updates with the legal team and an authorized spokesperson. This guide helps organize a search for counsel; it is not legal advice.

Explore the Nonprofit & Foundation Resilience guide for related resources. For strategic or crisis communications support, contact Caitlin at CBKStrategies.

Back to all resilience resources · Home · About CBKStrategies

Back to all resilience resources