Supporting Ireland’s Charities, NGOs & Social‑Impact Organisations
At O’Connor LLP, we are proud to be one of Ireland’s trusted legal advisors to charities, NGOs, non‑profits, and social enterprises. Based in Dublin, our firm provides clear, practical and mission‑focused legal advice that helps organisations thrive while meeting their regulatory and governance obligations.
We understand the unique challenges facing charities — increasing scrutiny from the Charities Regulator, stricter governance expectations, complex funding arrangements, and the pressures of delivering frontline services. We are here to support boards, trustees, and leadership teams with specialist expertise tailored to the Irish charity and non‑profit sector.
Our Legal Services for Charities & NGOs:
Charity Law & Governance
We help organisations remain compliant, transparent, and well‑governed.
Our services include:
- Charity registration and legal structuring
- Updating constitutions and governing documents
- Trustee duties and governance training
- Charities Act compliance
- Advising on fundraising regulations
- Mergers, collaborations, and restructuring
- Preparing for Charities Regulator inspections
- Responding to regulatory investigations
- Advising Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) in relation to requirements of Approved Housing Bodies Regulatory Authority
- Commission of Inquiry, Tribunal and Statutory Inquiries
Employment & Volunteers
Charities often rely on a mix of employees, volunteers, and contractors. We provide sensitive, pragmatic guidance on:
- Employment contracts and handbooks
- Volunteer agreements and policies
- HR and workplace investigations
- Equality, safeguarding and HR compliance
- WRC and Labour Court representation
- Investigation and Inquiries
Property & Real Estate for Charities
Whether acquiring premises or managing legacy assets, we support charities through:
- Acquiring or selling charity property
- Negotiating leases for offices or community services
- Landlord/tenant issues
- Title and due diligence
- Planning matters
- Cy-près Schemes
Regulation, Compliance & Risk
We guide charities and Approved Housing Bodies through the growing regulatory landscape:
- GDPR and data‑protection compliance
- Governance and risk frameworks
- Policy development
- Support through statutory inspections and audits
Disputes & Litigation
When disputes arise, we help resolve them quickly, discreetly, and effectively:
- Governance and trustee disputes
- Contractual disputes
- Employment claims
- Property disputes
- Mediation and alternative dispute resolution
- Advice regarding establishment of Redress Schemes
Why Charities Choose O’Connor LLP
✔ Sector Expertise
Our team has in‑depth experience with Irish charities, NGOs, community organisations, trade unions, and social‑impact initiatives.
✔ Practical, Jargon‑Free Advice
We deliver clear and actionable guidance grounded in an understanding of how charities operate.
✔ Mission‑Focused Approach
We support organisations that make a difference, and our values align with the work of the non‑profit community.
✔ Trusted by Leaders Across the Sector
From national charities to grassroots organisations, clients rely on our responsive and reliable advice.
Who We Work With
We act for a wide range of organisations, including:
- Registered charities
- Community and voluntary organisations
- NGOs and advocacy groups
- Social enterprises
- Philanthropic foundations
- Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs)
- Religious Orders and Congregations
- Educational Institutions
Resources for Charities
We regularly publish insights and practical guides to support trustees and charity leaders, including:
- Governance checklists
- Trustee duties under Irish law
- Updates from the Charities Regulator
- Employment law guidance for non‑profits
Get in Touch
If your organisation needs expert legal advice for charities, non‑profits and NGOs, our team is here to help.
Partners:
- John O’Connor – Email: john.oconnor@oclegal.ie
- Helen McGrath – Email: helen.mcgrath@oclegal.ie
Solicitors:
- Sinead Collins
Phone: 00 353 1 6764488 or Email: mail@oclegal.ie