Legal foundations for the organizations that serve communities
From incorporation and charitable registration to governance and CRA compliance, we help charities, non-profits and foundations build and maintain strong legal footing.
NorthBridge Legal Services provides practical, strategic legal guidance to charities, non-profit organizations, foundations and social-purpose organizations across Ontario. We understand the regulatory realities of the charitable sector and help organizations navigate them with confidence.
Kyle Thompson brings prior experience from the public sector, including time at the Canada Revenue Agency’s Charities Directorate, to this work. Whether you are forming a new organization, applying for charitable status, or strengthening your governance, we deliver clear advice aligned with your mission.
Fees depend on the scope of work, from a defined incorporation package to ongoing governance and compliance advice. We scope and quote each engagement after understanding your organization’s needs.
How we support charities and non-profits
Incorporation & registration
Incorporating charities and non-profits, drafting governing documents, and applying for charitable status with the CRA.
Governance & bylaws
Advising boards on governance best practices, director responsibilities, bylaws, policies and internal procedures.
CRA & regulatory compliance
Receipting requirements, annual filings, operational compliance and regulatory reporting obligations.
Policies & organizational documents
Charitable-purpose clauses, conflict-of-interest policies, governance policies and other operational documents.
Gifts & donation issues
Charitable receipting, donor-related issues, fundraising compliance and gift-acceptance considerations.
Transactions & restructuring
Mergers, restructurings, continuances and other organizational changes affecting charities and non-profits.
Ongoing risk & advice
Ongoing counsel to identify risks, address governance concerns and respond proactively to regulatory issues.
How we work with you
Organization consultation
We learn about your mission, structure and goals, and identify the legal steps that matter most.
Scope & plan
You receive a clear scope of work, formation, registration, governance or compliance, with a fee approach.
Build & maintain
We complete the work and can provide ongoing advice as your organization grows and its obligations evolve.
Charity & Non-Profit Law, common questions
What is the difference between a non-profit and a registered charity?
A non-profit operates without distributing profits to members, while a registered charity is additionally approved by the CRA to issue official donation receipts and must meet ongoing charitable-registration obligations. We help organizations choose and pursue the right structure for their goals.
Can you help us apply for charitable status with the CRA?
Yes. We assist with charitable-status applications, including drafting appropriate purposes and governing documents, and advising on the requirements that come with registration.
Do you advise existing organizations, or only new ones?
Both. We help new organizations incorporate and register, and we support established charities and non-profits with governance, bylaws, compliance and organizational changes.
What organizations do you work with?
We assist charities, non-profit organizations, foundations and social-purpose organizations. Standard conflict and eligibility screening applies to every engagement.
Other ways we can help
Notary & Commissioning
When you need a document notarized, commissioned or certified, we provide prompt, professional service with attention to detail.
Explore Notary & Commissioning Wills & Estate PlanningWills & Estate Planning
A properly prepared will and powers of attorney help ensure your wishes are documented and your loved ones have certainty. We make the process clear and straightforward.
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Separation and family disputes are stressful and personal. We give you clear advice, a realistic plan, and steady advocacy so you can make confident decisions for yourself and your children.
Explore Family LawReady to talk it through?
Book a confidential consultation and get clear, practical advice about your next step.