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Non-Profit Formation & Governance Lawyers – Detroit & Southfield, Michigan

At The Cromer Law Group PLLC, we help visionary clients turn missions into legally sound and compliant nonprofit organizations. From drafting formation documents to securing 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, our attorneys provide strategic, experienced counsel to nonprofits throughout Detroit, Southfield, and across Michigan.
With more than 27 years of experience, we guide organizations that serve their communities, faith-based initiatives, and charitable causes from start-up through long-term governance.

Starting a Non-Profit Organization in Michigan

Launching a nonprofit requires more than a great idea — it takes precise legal steps to ensure compliance with state and federal law.
Our firm assists with:

  • Choosing the correct nonprofit structure (public charity, private foundation, membership-based, etc.)

  • Drafting and filing Articles of Incorporation with LARA – Corporations Division

  • Preparing customized Bylaws and Conflict-of-Interest policies

  • Applying for an EIN and IRS recognition of 501(c)(3) or other exempt status

  • Registering with the Michigan Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Section

Authoritative resources:

  • IRS – Applying for Tax-Exempt Status (Form 1023)

  • Michigan Attorney General – Charitable Trusts & Solicitations

  • National Council of Nonprofits – Legal Compliance Resources

Our attorneys handle the entire process — from filing and documentation to IRS follow-up — ensuring your organization starts on a solid legal foundation.

501(c)(3) and Federal Tax-Exempt Applications

Obtaining federal tax-exempt recognition is a crucial step for nonprofits. We assist with:

  • Form 1023 and 1023-EZ applications to the IRS

  • Drafting compliant purpose and dissolution clauses

  • Ensuring the organization satisfies the public-charity test under IRS regulations

  • Addressing IRS inquiries or denials

  • Maintaining annual compliance through proper 990 filings

References:

  • IRS Publication 557 – Tax-Exempt Status for Your Organization

  • IRS Form 990 Filing Requirements

Non-Profit Governance & Compliance

Proper governance protects both the mission and the board. We advise boards, officers, and executives on:

  • Board governance and fiduciary duties

  • Conflicts of interest and disclosure policies

  • Annual reporting and audit obligations

  • Bylaw revisions and membership management

  • Compliance with state charitable-solicitation laws

For nonprofits seeking to expand or merge, we guide through:

  • Restructuring, mergers, and dissolutions

  • Asset transfers between charitable entities

  • Joint ventures between nonprofit and for-profit organizations

Key references:

  • Michigan Nonprofit Corporation Act (MCL 450.2101 et seq.)

  • IRS Governance and Best Practices for 501(c)(3)s

Legal Support for Faith-Based & Community Organizations

Our firm proudly represents churches, ministries, schools, and community development nonprofits across Michigan. We understand the intersection between religious-freedom protections, tax-exempt compliance, and state regulations — providing tailored guidance for faith-based entities that serve the public good.

Why Choose The Cromer Law Group PLLC

  • Over 27 years assisting Michigan nonprofits, businesses, and charitable organizations

  • Detailed understanding of state and federal tax-exempt requirements

  • Experience in both formation and governance litigation

  • Commitment to advancing community-focused missions with legal excellence

  • Personalized counsel from experienced attorneys — not automated services

We make sure your organization not only starts correctly but thrives with long-term legal stability.

Contact Our Non-Profit Law Attorneys

Call (248) 809-6790 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
We serve nonprofits throughout Detroit, Southfield, Oakland County, Wayne County, and across Michigan.

Legal Disclaimer

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each organization’s situation is unique, and prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.

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