Legal Question in Business Law in California
Non-profit unincorporated association
Are the individual members of a non-profit unincorporated association (social club) subject to liability for judgements against the association?
The club has about 200 members and is considering incorporating in order to avoid any individual liability for judgements resulting from suits against the association.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Non-profit unincorporated association
I would need more facts about the type of liability, and the structure of the association.
Generally, members of an unincorporated association are not liable for the debts of the association; the
association is liable. Judgments against the association can be enforced only against the association.
However, the protection may not be perfect. Directors and officers may be liable for participation in the conduct
leading to the judgment. There may be other theories (conspiracy, ratification, etc.) which may enlarge the scope of
liability.
Incorporation is an imperfect option, but may help in some situations, although still subject to having individual directors and
officers often liable. Insurance is usually the first protection, but again, has its limits.
Jed Somit
Jed Somit, Attorney at Law
1440 Broadway - Suite 910