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TACS Legal Assistance Project

Providing Free Legal Assistance to Nonprofits

Through the TACS Legal Assistance Project, 501(c)(3) organizations can receive pro bono legal advice on a variety of issues related to nonprofit governance and management.

In partnership with the Multnomah Bar Assoc/Young Lawyers Section, the TACS Legal Assistance Project (LAP) supports 501(c)(3) tax-exempt Oregon nonprofit corporations that serve a broad public interest and whose budgets do not exceed $300,000/year. The Legal Assistance Project contributes to the well-being of Oregon communities by providing legal services that would ordinarily be outside the financial reach of small nonprofit organizations.

LAP supports charitable organizations that address issues of concern to the entire community such as social service, environmental, health, mental health, arts and culture, civil rights, and educational groups. Due to limited resources, the LAP is not able to provide assistance to organizations that have a narrow focus such as sports teams, clubs, pet groups that support a specific breed, churches, etc.

TACS Legal Assistance Project can help your nonprofit with:

  • Employment issues (personnel policies, human resources, contracts)
  • Real Estate (leases, property taxes)
  • Business contracts and transactions
  • Organization structures (partners, mergers)
  • Intellectual Property (trademark, copyright, technology licenses)
  • Review of Bylaws & Articles
  • Taxation (advice regarding state and local taxes and exemption status)
  • Advice regarding potential fraud or extortion
  • Insurance and risk management
  • Board liability issues

The Legal Assistance Project does not help groups prepare or file tax-exempt status documents. For help on tax-exempt status, TACS offers a Tax Exempt Clinic that guides participants through filling out IRS Form 1023. To find out when the next 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Status clinic is happening and/or to register check out the Upcoming TACS Workshops. For information, guidelines and steps to becoming a nonprofit, go to our Helpline Online and read Answers on Tax-Exempt Status.

Eligible organizations will:

  • Be located and registered in Oregon
  • Have a budget of under $300,000
  • Be a community-based nonprofit serving a broad public interest
  • Have 501(c)(3) tax exempt status

Interested in getting legal help?

Click here to apply online now!!!

The Legal Assistance Project gives priority to small nonprofits located in Multnomah County with budgets under $300,000. The attorneys working with the Legal Assistance Project cannot represent your organization in a lawsuit or dispute, but may be able to provide legal advice regarding your options.

Questions? Call Flora Melhouse at 503.239.4001 x129.