Church Law & Tax Report
January/February 1998
Feature Article
Articles
Recent Developments
Issues that affect ministers and churches, with Richard R. Hammar
Recent Developments in Federal Court Regarding Ascending Liability 
A federal appeals court has provided a useful list of factors to consider in determining whether or not a "parent" corporation is legally responsible for the liabilities and obligations of a "subsidiary" or affiliate.
Recent Developments in Kansas Regarding Ascending Liability 
The Kansas Supreme Court ruled that a parent corporation was not liable for injuries suffered by an employee of a subsidiary corporation, since the two entities were not sufficiently interrelated.
Recent Developments in Mississippi Regarding Ascending Liability 
A federal court in Mississippi ruled that a parent corporation was not legally responsible for the liabilities of a subsidiary corporation.
Recent Developments in Federal Court Regarding Clergy Removal 
A federal appeals court ruled that it had no authority to resolve a "wrongful termination" claim brought by a minister against a religious employer.
Recent Developments in Federal Court Regarding Employment Practices 
A federal court dismissed a race and sex discrimination claim brought by a former employee against a church agency on the ground that he failed to demonstrate that his dismissal was discriminatory or that the church treated white employees more favorably.
Recent Developments in New York Regarding Employment Practices 
A federal district court in New York ruled that a church agency did not violate the Family and Medical Leave Act by dismissing an employee whose investment decisions resulted in a loss of $8 million in church funds.
Recent Developments in Texas Regarding Employment Practices 
A federal court in Texas ruled that a church could collect court costs that it paid in successfully defending itself in a lawsuit.
Recent Developments in Ohio Regarding Personal Injuries on Church Property or During Church Activities 
An Ohio court ruled that a church was not responsible for injuries sustained by a minor who was injured while trespassing on church property.
Recent Developments in Illinois Regarding Personal Injuries on Church Property or During Church Activities 
An Illinois court ruled that a church could be liable for injuries sustained by participants in a "treasure hunt."
Recent Developments in Florida Regarding Personal Injuries on Church Property or During Church Activities 
The Florida Supreme Court ruled that a funeral home was responsible for injuries sustained by a woman who was involved in an accident while driving her vehicle through a red light at a busy intersection as part of a funeral procession.
Recent Developments in New York Regarding Sexual Harassment 
A New York court ruled that a charity were liable for an executive officer's acts of sexual harassment.