Church Law & Tax Report
January/February 1995
Articles
Recent Developments
Issues that affect ministers and churches, with Richard R. Hammar
Church Property; Personal Injuries on Church Property or During Church Activities
Are Churches Responsible for Injuries by Outside Groups on Its Property? 
Yes, if church maintains control of premises, court rules.
Confidential and Privileged Communications; Counseling
Confidential and Privileged Communications Between Members and Clergy 
Court rules clergy-penitent privilege not limited to "confessions."
Confidential and Privileged Communications; Counseling
Confidential Communications with More than One Person 
Clergy-penitent privilege may be revoked if information has been shared with others.
Employment Practices
Age Discrimination and Religious Organizations 
Court says religious organizations not applicable to most religious organizations.
Personal Injuries on Church Property or During Church Activities
Liability for Asbestos Exposure on Church Property 
Church not responsible for potential future asbestos-related health problems.
Confidential and Privileged Communications; Counseling
When Are Statements to Clergy Confidential and Privileged? 
Recent case highlights some statements that may or may not be protected by penitent privilege.
Schools
Can Parents Claim "Educational Malpractice" Against a School? 
Usually not, Colorado court says.
City Can Assess Utility Fee to Churches for Fire Prevention Costs 
Fee covers expense of a service, court says.