Churches and other religious organizations have a growing need for legal counsel and advice. Barnes Alford is a leading firm in handling church-related legal matters, having assisted churches throughout the state—as well as the governing bodies of religious denominations and organizations—with a variety of issues, including the defense of negligence actions and other civil lawsuits, insurance coverage, and incorporation. Our attorneys are also available to conduct seminars on critical issues facing today’s churches.

Corporate Formation

We assist churches and religious organizations in properly setting up their ministry as a legal entity for business and tax purposes. Our attorneys have experience with the following:

• Filing incorporation documents
• Bylaws
• Tax identification numbers
• Board of director election
• Mergers and dissolution of entities

Liability Issues

As with any organization serving the public, liability issues are prevalent even among religious and nonprofit organizations. We have a strong reputation for ably representing such organizations in liability claims including:

• Premises liability
• Negligence and abuse
• Contract disputes