LAWS 4408 Law of Philanthropy

The study of law and philanthropy is lively capable of fascinating classroom consideration and of real value to legal careers. For those who anticipate a career in private practice (including wealth management), who might sit on foundation or non-profit boards, who might advise corporations in their philanthropy or who might find careers involving public policy or taxation and in so many other ways, this journey through the topic can offer much. This course considers the connection between the law (legislation and statutes, case law and regulation) and charitable giving. It is a rapidly changing field and this years edition of the course will have much to address as changes in state and federal statutes and regulations arise, as important aspects tax reform in 2025 and 2026 stand to impact charitable giving and as new philanthropic structures redefine the very landscape of charitable giving. Specifically, in addition to familiar vehicles for charitable giving (cash, trusts and more), the course will look at new and emerging fields of philanthropic activity (as with donor advised funds, philanthropic mutual funds, venture philanthropy, social impact bonds, B corporations and others) as well as the shifting legal terrain occasioned by newly proposed tax reform, new state and federal legislation and the very creative uses of the law to introduce philanthropy outside of the orbit of the tax code. Students with questions can contact Prof. Bagley (bagleyw@bc.edu).