Legal counsel for churches and ministries ready to build something permanent — in English, Français, and Kreyòl Ayisyen.
Houses of worship face a unique set of legal challenges that most attorneys are not equipped to handle — from purchasing a sanctuary to registering with the New York Attorney General. The Maiaklovsky Law Firm has worked directly with faith communities, including Haitian and Caribbean churches, charismatic and evangelical congregations, and independent ministries across New York.
NY Attorney General Registration: Every charitable organization in New York — including churches that solicit donations — may be required to register with the NYSAGO Charities Bureau. Failure to register can result in penalties and loss of standing. We handle the full process.
We represent congregations purchasing commercial real estate for worship space, community centers, and ministry facilities — from contract negotiation through closing.
We prepare and file IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ for church formation and ministry organizations — including the narrative, financial projections, and supporting documents the IRS requires.
We manage the full CHAR410 registration process, annual CHAR500 filings, and keep your organization in good standing with the Charities Bureau.
We draft corporate bylaws, board resolutions, conflict of interest policies, and membership agreements — tailored to your church’s structure, whether elder-led, congregational, or apostolic.
We file your Certificate of Incorporation, obtain your EIN, and establish your organization as a legally recognized not-for-profit corporation under New York law.
We advise on pastoral contracts, staff employment agreements, volunteer policies, and the legal distinction between employee and independent contractor for ministry workers.
In English, Français, and Kreyòl Ayisyen — serving faith communities across Westchester, Rockland, and New York City.