Should Our Board Members Have Legal Training?

Church boards are in charge of making sure that the ministry's goals, finances, and the law are all followed. Giving board members legal training is important so they can carry out their fiduciary duties properly and protect the church's mission and assets.

The Legal and Fiduciary Duties of Church Board Members

• Duty of Care: Keeping a close eye on things.
• Duty of Loyalty: Not letting your own interests get in the way.
• Duty of Obedience: Following the law and the church's mission.

The Risks and Effects of Boards That Aren't Trained

• Fines from the IRS and loss of tax-exempt status.
• Personal responsibility for breaches of trust.
• More likely to be sued and scammed.
• Loss of trust among donors and church members.

Advantages of Legal Training for Board Members

• Making decisions that are informed and follow the rules.
• Taking steps to avoid risks.
• A stronger culture of governance.
• More trust from donors.

How to Best Implement Board Legal Training

• New members' onboarding education.
• Training sessions that happen every year.
• Workshops that are useful and learning through scenarios.
• Access to legal help and resources.
• Regular checks on how well people are doing.

How Tier 3: THE PASTOR SUPPORT PLAN Helps Board Members Get Legal Training

• Governance audits that find out what training is needed.
• Training programs made just for your church.
• Get help from a lawyer who knows what they're doing.
• Help with making policies.
• Helping with board retreats.

This blog is for information only and not legal advice. Talk to lawyers who are licensed.

Links Inside

• Church Legal Audit and Compliance Report
• Pastor Support Plan Overview
• Church Governance Attorney Services

Links to Other Sites

• ECFA Governance Resources
• IRS Nonprofit Compliance
• Nonprofit Quarterly Board Governance