Profile
Empowering Nonprofits to Change the World
Birken Law Office PLLC is a unique law firm in Minneapolis dedicated exclusively to serving nonprofit organizations. Founded in 2009 by Jessica "Jess" Birken, the firm was born out of a desire to help mission-driven organizations navigate the complex legal landscape without the stuffiness of traditional law firms. Jess Birken is not your typical attorney; she describes herself as having an outgoing personality and a passion for creative problem-solving. After working in-house for a national nonprofit, she realized that many organizations were underserved by the legal market. Today, Birken Law acts as a strategic partner for nonprofits, helping them handle everything from formation to compliance so they can focus on their mission work.
Specialized Legal Solutions for Nonprofits
The firm offers a refreshing approach to legal services, moving away from the billable hour model to offer subscription-based and flat-fee services. This transparency allows nonprofits to budget effectively while receiving consistent, high-quality legal counsel.
- Nonprofit Formation: Guiding founders through the 501(c)(3) application process to ensure tax-exempt status is secured.
- Compliance & Governance: Drafting bylaws, conflict of interest policies, and ensuring adherence to IRS regulations.
- Contracts & Agreements: Reviewing grant agreements, vendor contracts, and partnership MOUs to protect the organization’s interests.
- Intellectual Property: Securing trademarks and copyrights to protect the nonprofit’s brand and creative assets.
- Mergers & Dissolutions: assisting organizations in combining forces or winding down operations with dignity and legal precision.
A Modern Approach to Law
Jess Birken believes that legal advice should be accessible, practical, and maybe even a little fun. She is a recognized thought leader in the nonprofit sector, hosting the Charity Therapy podcast and speaking at national conferences. Her firm leverages technology to serve clients efficiently across Minnesota and beyond. Clients love Birken Law for its responsiveness, clarity, and genuine enthusiasm for their causes. Whether you are a brand-new charity just starting out or an established foundation needing a fractional general counsel, Birken Law provides the expertise you need to thrive.
"My goal is to help you crush it. Getting bogged down in the minutia sucks the joy out of the important work. My clients want to do The Work – not the paperwork."
Located in the vibrant Northeast Minneapolis Arts District, Birken Law Office reflects the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of its clients. If you are leading a nonprofit and need a lawyer who truly understands your world, contact Birken Law Office PLLC today.
Specializing In
Nonprofit Formation, 501(c)(3) Compliance, Strategic Planning, Fractional General Counsel
Address & Location
1400 Van Buren St NE #200, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Building Location
The firm is located in the Casket Arts Building, a historic renovated factory in the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District. The building is a hub for creatives and small businesses.
Suite Access
Suite 200 is on the second floor. Visitors can enter through the main door on Van Buren St NE and use the stairs or elevator.
Parking Details
Free parking is available in the surface lot adjacent to the building and on the surrounding streets.
Public Transit
Bus stops for Route 10 are located nearby on Central Ave NE.
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