Church Law and Religious Organizations

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We understand the calling to serve the Church and counsel many churches, ministries, parachurches, denominations, private schools, universities, seminaries, pastors, and religious organizations.

In today’s climate, churches have to worry about numerous legal issues (“church law”), some of which may have severe consequences. Churches need to make sure they take the proper steps to prevent physical or financial harm to their congregations. For example, failing to take reasonable steps to prevent child abuse can have a devastating impact on a church.  Some questions to consider:  Is the church running background checks on every employee or volunteer who works with children or has access to them? Is there a policy that every employee and volunteer is required to comply with?

In addition to preventing child abuse, churches and religious organizations regularly deal with a large variety of legal issues, including employment law, complying with bylaws and governing documents, and federal and local tax issues, to name a few. We also have experience in addressing issues specific to churches and religious organizations, including matters involving:

  • Statements of Faith and Related Policies
  • Board of Directors, Elders, Deacons, and Membership Meetings
  •  Seminaries, Universities, and Private Schools
  •  Childcare, Children Ministries, and Youth Groups
  •  Dispute Resolution
  •  Risk Management
  •  Minister Housing Allowance
  •  Benevolent Funds
  •  Missions

“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God…” Acts 20:28

“Wisdom is with those who receive counsel” Proverbs 13:10