As a non-profit, Autism Network Singapore (“ANS”) understands the importance of inclusivity and support. One avenue through which they provide this assistance is through advocating for the rights and needs of persons with autism. In order to bolster and expand upon your advocacy projects, however, it can be invaluable to consult and take educated action based upon specialized legal resources.
As a non-profit organization, ANS faces unique challenges in performing its advocacy work and supporting its mission. Consulting with legal professionals can help ensure that the group remains compliant with all regulations while also achieving its advocacy goals. For example, public policies that pertain to autism are in constant flux, and staying abreast of the ever-changing regulatory framework is critical to success. During the legislative process, having access to legal information can help the group effectively and accurately respond to proposed new policies. Furthermore, there are lots of issues that ANS needs to negotiate in its day-to-day operations. An example of this involves the organization’s board of directors. The board’s composition, powers, and responsibilities must comply with the law. Therefore, having access to legal information is vital.
Legal information can also be invaluable in cases where programs or services face funding cuts. Protest campaigns and public communication strategies can be developed after analyzing legal issues. This approach allows ANS to better explain why it should receive funding over other groups competing for the same money. Or, if the organization is involved in an advocacy group that communicates with government officials, ANS can use legal information to explain how a particular policy directly affects the rights or needs of persons with autism.
Another way in which legal information can be helpful involves compliance with government funding requirements. These requirements can often be complicated, and ANS may need help in deciphering which regulations pertain to its funding. If it falls short in terms of compliance, it could be unable to receive funds from government agencies with which it is involved. Even though ANS is currently in compliance with the regulations, it is best to get this information checked on a periodic basis. This would especially be the case when the organization has expanded its services or target age range.
Legal information can also be useful in the event that a contract dispute arises. This is another crucial aspect of running a non-profit organization that could lead to serious problems down the line if not handled in accordance with the law. The contract should clearly provide all stipulations and requirements. Although ANS already does an excellent job of incorporating full disclosure into its contracts with external institutions, ongoing help from legal professionals can ensure that the group is inserting all of the appropriate clauses. In addition, if the organization encounters enforcement issues, legal advice can assist ANS by determining what actions can be taken to enforce the contract.
Legal advice is equally important for supporting day-to-day operations. An example of this is helping ANS navigate through potential liability issues. If there is an incident, staff members can take steps to limit their individual liability and the liability of any directors. An ongoing partnership with legal professionals will keep ANS educated on the options it has for reducing liability.
Having access to valuable legal resources for non-profits gives ANS the ability to remain in compliance with the law, address potential liability issues, and explain the impact of its advocacy work.