Church Law & Tax Report

Does state law override an organization's bylaws?

Court rules that man cannot sue a church for refusing his membership.

Court rules that local congregation, not national church, has right to property.

A local church may lose the right to its property when it leaves its denomination.

Many courts are unwilling to resolve this type of claim.

Are song lyrics copyrighted?

Copying and selling sections of textbooks constitutes copyright infringement.

Counselors may sometimes be legally responsible for injuries caused by their counselees.

In many cases, non-ministerial employees may sue churches.

Employers must make efforts to accommodate employees' religious beliefs

Employer discovered employee's misconduct after dismissing her.

Officials may not coerce citizens into engaging in religious exercises.

Prayers may violate the First Amendment.

Court rules that it may resolve lawsuit.

In a few cases, a court may resolve such disputes.

Churches may not be liable for negligence if the injuries result from a third party's criminal activity.

Court rules that organization is not responsible for man's activities.

In some states, charities are immune from lawsuits by beneficiaries.

It's a good idea to perform background checks on anyone with access to minors.

Adult victims may be able to sue for abuse suffered as a child

Court finds church and diocese not liable.

The minor had been molested by a church employee.

Court rules that the statute of limitations bars him from suing.

Man's lawsuit over abuse suffered as minor barred.

Her lawsuit was barred by the statute of limitations.

In some states, the "discovery rule" allows victims to sue for past abuse.

Court makes an important ruling.

Not all of a volunteer's personal assets may be available to pay for damages.

Not all church-owned buildings qualify as a "church" under zoning law.