Russell Advocaten has been supporting Dutch and foreign companies and entities for more than 80 years, with advising charities being an important and structural part of our practice. This includes, among other things, incorporation, internationalization, governance, and corporate housekeeping. We understand that the non-profit sector is not only about rules, but also about reputation, trust, and social impact. That is why we think strategically with you and provide your organization with legal support, so that you can focus fully on your mission.
We know the sector inside out, not only as legal advisors, but also from the inside. Several of our lawyers hold positions on the boards of non-profit organizations. In addition, Russell Advocaten is one of the founders of the Governing Charitable Funds program at VU University Amsterdam, where we also teach courses. This program, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2022, underscores our long-standing commitment to the philanthropic sector. Russell Advocaten wrote the chapter on the Netherlands for the handbook Charity Law. A Global Guide from Practical Law, published by Thomson Reuters.
Whether you want to set up a foundation or association, or have been active in the non-profit sector for years, we can guide you through every stage. We help you choose the right legal form, draw up articles of association and regulations, and ensure that internal governance and management relationships are legally sound. We assist you with the implementation of the Management and Supervision of Legal Entities Act (Wbtr), decision-making, and directors’ liability.
Non-profits increasingly operate in complex networks of financiers, governments, and implementing partners. We are at your side when entering into collaborations. From agreements with governments and funds to contracts with suppliers and project partners, we ensure that agreements are clear, legally sound, and future-proof.
ANBI status is essential for donor confidence and tax benefits. We guide you through the application process, setting up your organization in accordance with the requirements, and maintaining this status. We also advise on gift deductions, statutory conditions, and publication obligations—with an eye for legal precision and reputational risks.
Whether it concerns staff, volunteers, or freelancers, we ensure clear and legally sound agreements. We draw up volunteer regulations that limit risks and create clarity. In addition, we assist you in the area of privacy legislation, so that your organization complies with the GDPR and handles personal data responsibly.
In the unlikely event of a conflict, we will act as your legal advisor. We represent your organization in internal management disputes, contractual conflicts, liability issues, or labor law proceedings. Always with an eye to continuity, reputation, and impact.
To substantiate our extensive experience in the field of philanthropy and non-profit organizations, you will find a selection from our track record below.
We reviewed the group structure and governance for an international environmental organisation dedicated to protecting nature and the climate, often through direct action and campaigns. We also reviewed the remuneration of the board.
We assisted an American 501(c)(3) research foundation in expanding to the Netherlands by establishing a Dutch foundation. We also assisted them with their day-to-day business and contracts with third parties.
For an international aid organisation, we reviewed and amended the articles of association of its Dutch foundations in light of ANBI obligations. This was part of a legal restructuring aimed at improving governance and compliance with Dutch and international regulations.
In addition to these examples, we support a wide range of charities, both in the Netherlands and internationally. This includes organizations in the fields of human rights, animal welfare, medical research, culture, student exchange, and many other initiatives with beneficiaries spread across multiple continents.
Feel free to contact us. We are happy to think along with you.
The Transparency and Countering Undermining by Civil Society Organisations Act (Wtmo) imposes a number of new obligations on charities in the Netherlands. What are these? What measures should non-profit organisations take as a result?
Managing a nonprofit organization requires not only idealism and dedication, but also a sensible approach to legal opportunities and risks. This ensures that the charity is future-proof. What are the important issues that need to be properly addressed?
ANBI status makes it even more attractive to make donations, gifts and bequests to charities. What requirements must an institution meet in order to obtain and retain this status? When is something considered to be of public benefit? What information must an ANBI publish?
