Church Law & Tax Report
January/February 1994
Articles with a
are available only to members.
are available only to members.
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Articles
Recent Developments
Issues that affect ministers and churches, with Richard R. Hammar
Schools
State Regulations for Schools
Court rules that regulations do not violate an organization's religious freedom.
Church Property; Church Property Disputes
Churches Can Lose Property Upon Leaving Denomination
Be informed before you vote to secede.
Church Property; Church Property Disputes
Church Buildings as Historical Landmarks
Designation of a church as a landmark may violate the First Amendment.
Dismissed Minister Sues Church for Defamation
Courts are prohibited from resolving such lawsuits.
Confidential and Privileged Communications
Written Communications and the Clergy-Penitent Privilege
In some cases, a letter written to a minister may be protected.
Schools
Charges for Use of School Facilities
Court rules that a school cannot charge churches more than other groups for the use of its facilities.
Schools
Church Rental of School Facilities
Court rules that schools cannot exclude churches from renting facilities.
Ten Commandments Displayed in Courthouse
Court rules that display violates First Amendment.
Dismissed Church Members Sue
Civil courts are prohibited from intervening in the dismissal of members.
Retrospective Legislation
Legislation extending the time during which abuse victims can sue may violate state constitutional provisions.
Exemption from Social Security
The time limitation on applying for exemption is not renewed when a minister has a change in beliefs.
Application for Social Security Exemption
Late applications will not be accepted.
Property Tax Exemption for Parsonages
The definition of a "parsonage" is limited in some states.
