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Articles
Application of Child Abuse Reporting Laws to Ministers and Lay Church Employees—the 2007 Survey of State Laws
Our annual review of the laws of all 50 states.
Defamation
Lawsuits by Dismissed Clergy
A Texas court ruled that it was barred by the First Amendment from resolving a lawsuit brought against a church by a dismissed youth director.
Defamation
Accusations of Defamation
Statements concerning the discipline of members cannot be defamatory unless made with malice.
Denominations - Legal Liability
Denominational Legal Responsibility for Local Churches
There are several legal defenses available to a denominational agency that is sued as a result of the acts or obligations of affiliated clergy and churches.
Employment Practices
Enforced Moral Codes
Churches can impose scriptural or moral standards on their employees, and such efforts will be fully protected by the civil courts?o long as they do so fairly and uniformly.
Schools
Age Discrimination Claims
Age discrimination requires proof that age was the basis for an adverse employment decision.
Sexual Misconduct by Clergy, Lay Employees, and Volunteers
Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Several courts have refused to hold churches and denominational agencies liable on the basis of a breach of a fiduciary duty for the sexual misconduct of a minister.
Does Providing Child Care for House Groups Expose the Church to Liability?
Potential risks for in-home small group gatherings.
What's the Difference Between "Privileged" and "Confidential" Communication?
Two confusing legal concepts made clear.
Does a Child with ADHD Impose a Higher Duty of Care Upon Leaders?
Churches may need to increase supervision.
