Church - Canon Law

Among the many areas of practice in the legal profession, church/canon law is one of the most unique and isolated. Through its own constitution and/or law (known as "canon law"), an organized church seeks to provide to and impose upon its ordained clergy and lay members regulations governing their relationship with that church. Canon law may or may not be similar to the laws of criminal and civil courts; and, because of the constitutional "separation of church and state", an aggrieved pastor or congregation may not have the ability to seek relief in those courts but may be required to rely upon a church tribunal. Accordingly, it is important that a person having a dispute with his/her church secure the representation of a knowledgeable attorney.

Zuckerman & Fisher has substantial experience in church/canon law. It has represented clients in disputes with churches of various denominations, including Episcopal, Presbyterian, Baptist, and Jehovah's Witnesses (unfortunately, because of the rules of the Roman Catholic Church, the firm is not able to provide representation in disputes involving that faith). In particular, it has represented clergy accused of sexual improprieties, misconduct, and violation of ordination vows. It has also assisted them in disputes with parishes and congregations. The representation has been in both secular and ecclesiastical courts, at trial and appellate levels.