Church Law & Tax Report
January/February 1991
Articles
Recent Developments
Issues that affect ministers and churches, with Richard R. Hammar
Counseling; Sexual Misconduct by Clergy, Lay Employees, and Volunteers
Sexual Misconduct of Counselors 
A court ruled that a pastoral counseling center could be sued for a counselor's misconduct.
Church Property; Church Property Disputes
Designation of a Church as a Historical Landmark 
This designation may violate churches' constitutional rights.
Confidential and Privileged Communications
Privileged Communications 
When does the clergy-penitent privilege apply?
Church Records
Amendment of Church Documents 
A court ruled that a church's articles of incorporation could not be amended without the pastor's approval.
Employment Practices; Schools
Church Schools and the Minimum Wage 
Court rules that church-run schools must pay the minimum wage.
Contracts; Employment Practices; Schools
Failure to Renew Contracts 
Can a school be sued for failing to renew an administrator's contract?
Section 6050I of the Internal Revenue Code 
The IRS recently issued a reminder to tax-exempt organizations.
Marriage; Marriage and Divorce
Religion and Child Custody 
What control do courts have over a child's religious upbringing?
Dismissed Member Sues Church 
The First Amendment prevents courts from resolving such cases.
Child Care Licensing 
A court ruled that requirements do not violate the First Amendment.
Self-Proclaimed Minister Claims Social Security Exemption 
His claim was rejected by the Tax Court.
Wills, Trusts, and Estates
Invalidation of Charitable Gifts Made Prior to Death 
A Florida law allowing heirs to challenge wills was recently repealed.
Church Property; Counseling; Zoning
Counseling Center's Request for Building Permit Denied 
The services offered would not have been for "religious purposes" as required by zoning law.