Non-profit organizations (NPOs) in Bangladesh operate in a complex legal and regulatory environment. Rahman Consultancy Firm offers specialized services to help these organizations comply with laws, manage risks, and achieve their social objectives efficiently. Below is a comprehensive overview of the legal services provided:

1. Registration & Compliance

A legal consulting firm assists in the formation and registration of non-profits under the appropriate laws, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Services include:

• • Legal Structure Consultation: Advising on the most suitable legal entity (e.g., Society, Trust, Foundation, NGO).
  • Registration Assistance:
    • Registration with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies & Firms (RJSC) under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
    • Registration as a Trust under the Trust Act, 1882.
    • Approval under the Foreign Donations (Voluntary Activities) Regulation Act, 2016 for NGOs receiving foreign funding.
    • Obtaining clearance from the NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) for foreign-funded organizations.
  • Tax Registration: Securing Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and VAT registration, if applicable.

2. Regulatory Compliance & Governance

To maintain legal status, non-profits must comply with various laws and regulations. Legal consultants provide:

• • Drafting & Reviewing Bylaws & Policies: Ensuring governance structures align with legal requirements and best practices.
  • Annual Filings & Reports: Assistance with tax filings, financial disclosures, and annual reports to RJSC and NGOAB.
  • Board Compliance & Responsibilities: Legal guidance on board composition, roles, and fiduciary duties.
  • Code of Ethics & Conflict of Interest Policies: Developing policies to promote transparency and ethical governance.

3. Foreign Funding & FCRA Compliance

Foreign-funded NGOs require special approvals and ongoing compliance with regulatory authorities:

• • Fundraising & Grants Legal Compliance: Ensuring donor agreements align with Bangladeshi laws.
  • NGOAB Approvals & Reporting: Assistance with obtaining and renewing registration under the Foreign Donations (Voluntary Activities) Regulation Act, 2016.
  • Compliance with the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947: Ensuring legal receipt and utilization of foreign contributions.

4. Contract & Agreement Drafting

Non-profits engage in various contracts that require legal oversight. Services include:

• • Drafting & Reviewing Contracts: Employment contracts, vendor agreements, donor agreements, and service contracts.
  • Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs): Formalizing collaborations with other organizations or government bodies.
  • Grant Agreements: Ensuring donor conditions are legally sound and enforceable.

5. Employment & Labor Law Compliance

Non-profits must comply with Bangladesh’s labor laws regarding employee rights and benefits. Legal consultants assist with:

• • Employment Contracts & HR Policies: Developing contracts, employee handbooks, and policies in compliance with the Bangladesh Labor Act, 2006.
  • Workplace Policies: Drafting policies on equal employment, anti-discrimination, and workplace harassment.
  • Termination & Dispute Resolution: Ensuring lawful termination processes and handling employee disputes.

6. Taxation & Financial Regulations

While non-profits may be eligible for tax exemptions, they still need to comply with financial regulations. Services include:

• • Tax Exemptions & Benefits: Assistance with applying for income tax exemptions under the Income Tax Ordinance, 1984.
  • VAT & Customs Duty Exemptions: Helping secure VAT exemptions for eligible non-profit activities.
  • Financial Audits & Compliance: Ensuring compliance with the Bangladesh Financial Reporting Act, 2015.

7. Intellectual Property Protection

To protect their brand and proprietary work, non-profits may need legal assistance in:

• • Trademark Registration: Protecting the organization’s name, logo, and branding.
  • Copyright Protection: Securing rights over publications, training materials, and digital content.
  • Intellectual Property Agreements: Managing rights in collaborations and partnerships.

8. Legal Dispute Resolution & Litigation

Non-profits may face legal challenges related to governance, contracts, or employment disputes. Legal services include:

• • Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Settling disputes through negotiation or arbitration.
  • Litigation Representation: Defending organizations in court on contractual or employment-related matters.
  • Regulatory Investigations & Compliance Audits: Handling legal inquiries or investigations from regulatory bodies.

9. Advocacy & Policy Advisory

Many non-profits engage in advocacy and policy work. Legal consultants provide:

• • Legislative & Policy Analysis: Advising on laws affecting the non-profit sector.
  • Public Interest Litigation (PIL): Representing organizations in cases that impact public policy.
  • Government & Stakeholder Engagement: Assisting with policy recommendations and advocacy efforts.

📞 Contact us today for a consultation!