FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS

Tran Arrowsmith’s attorneys believe in the value of the fraternal experience, each of us being affiliated with a fraternal organization. Over the years, we have sought to strengthen an understanding of the associational rights on which fraternal organizations are based. Along the way, we noticed the lack of legal service providers (general counsel services, especially) to support fraternal organizations in their day-to-day operations.

At Tran Arrowsmith, we understand that legal services can be onerous, especially for organizations dependent on dedicated, full-time volunteers. From our own experiences, we know that no group is the same, especially within the growing number of cultural-based organizations. We will meet you where you are, becoming a part of your team and supporting you beyond moments when things go wrong. When potential risk arises, we will be ready to support and advise you in making informed decisions that are consistent with your values, governing documents, and associational rights.

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Below are some of the areas that we can assist with:

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• Associational rights

• Chapter investigations and membership reviews

• Contract drafting and review related to members, vendors, and host institutions

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion

• Employment

• Fraternity defense/litigation

• Housing

• Intellectual property

• Internal governance, including governing documents, bylaws, and policies

• Outside general counsel services

• Private club exemptions under federal statute (Fair Housing Act, Americans with Disabilities Act)

• Risk management

• Transgender and nonbinary membership