We live in a litigious society. Some have estimated that state courts handle 20 million lawsuits a year. Pastors and churches are not immune to these legal problems. People may sue the church over negligence. Churches may experience legal problems over property or construction issues. How do tax laws affect the church? And what about copyright laws? Pastors and churches encounter these and a host of other legal issues as they seek to be effective for the Kingdom. In those cases, they may not know what to do or where to turn. They may know they need a lawyer, but who do they hire? How much will it cost? These, and other questions, may cause a church to become paralyzed and do nothing. This often compounds their situation.
This issue of Enrichment journal addresses some of the major legal issues churches and pastors may experience. These articles, written by lawyers, provide practical advice to help guide the pastor and church through the legal maze. Learn from the expertise of Ann Buwalda, Don Halloway, Richard R. Hammar, Stanton Masters, William T. McGrath, David Middlebrook, Midgett S. Parker, Jr., Ken Sande, Frank Sommerville, Jerry Sparks, John Vaughn, and George O. Wood.
Here are four areas where churches frequently violate tax laws and what the church must do to make tax compliance a priority.
Church Incorporation: Right or Wrong?
One argues that church incorporation creates unnecessary government entanglement while another insists that it’s just a tool to spread the gospel while protecting a church against modern risks. Who’s right?
When do the activities of a church give rise to copyright issues and what is the church’s best defense to address these issues?
Here are four safeguards your church can take to reduce its exposure to legal liability.
Sexual misconduct claims are the most common form of litigation involving churches. Here are 10 of the most significant risks associated with sexual conduct and ways to reduce the risk of litigation.
What are the practices your church can adopt and mistakes it can avoid to combat legal claims?
Insurance: What Coverage Does Your Church Need?
Though not a substitute for good risk management or safety and security safeguards, insurance is a valuable tool.
Over the past few years the IRS has made a number of pronouncements indicating that it will no longer ignore church political activities. Here is what the church and minister can and cannot do.
People often use the phrase “separation of church and state” to try to force the church from the public arena. But what rights do Christians and churches have under the First Amendment?
Although immigration has become a controversial public policy issue, the prophetic voice of the church needs to reflect the heart of God.
Most pastors are quick to respond to problems within their churches, including asking for legal expertise. But some pastors avoid asking for legal protection until it is too late.
Almost everything pastors need to know about estate planning.
The Scripture gives us a legal framework for understanding what Christ did for us on the Cross.
Being Human: How Should We Define Life and Personhood?