Lessons From Aretha Franklin’s Holographic Will
The Queen of Soul left a holographic will under a couch cushion. What happened next is a valuable lesson for church leaders.
Clergy, Law
Key rights and potential liabilities for ordained religious leaders; counseling, penitent privilege
The Top 5 Reasons Churches and Religious Organizations End Up in Court
How to keep your church from becoming another statistic.
Supreme Court Reaffirms and Expands Ministerial Exception
What the ruling means for churches and religious organizations.
When Does the Clergy-Penitent Privilege Exempt Reporting Child Abuse?
Montana Supreme Court interprets the state's mandatory child abuse reporting law did not apply and rules in favor of church.
Rich’s 15 Must-Knows for Pastors: Clergy-Penitent Privilege
Learn what statements or conversations are considered “privileged.”
Rich’s 15 Must-Knows for Pastors: Ministerial Exception
The law doesn't always protect pastors from employment discrimination.
Protecting Your Church from Lawsuits
Attorney Sally Wagenmaker offers insights on legal risks and liabilities associated with ministry in an interview with Matt Branaugh.
When Is It Wise to Pay for Legal Counsel?
Attorney Sally Wagenmaker offers guidelines on when to consider paid professionals in an interview with Matthew Branaugh.
The Masterpiece Cakeshop Ruling and Religious Freedom
This case and two others reflect the complexities of issues related to public accommodation.
Responding to Anonymous Allegations in Church
An unknown party seriously accuses a church leader. What should be done?
Handling Illegal Items in Church
Handling guns, drugs, and other materials given to clergy.
Legal Requirements for Church Pastors Doing Weddings
This eight-point checklist keeps the basics straight for pastors.
Does the Presence of a Third Party Negate Penitent Privilege?
Definitions of roles, and state laws, factor heavily in this question.
Small Group Privacy: What Are the Limits?
Can conversations end up in court?
Ownership of Church Accounting Records
Allowing a church treasurer to work on these records at home is problematic.
“Privileged” v. “Confidential” Communications in Church
Confidentiality and privileged communication are not the same thing. It is important to understand this for pastors.