Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Virginia

Church Power

It is legal for the Pastor of an organized, government recognized church to forceably remove someone or have them forceably removed from the church for reasons that are: 1. not personally harmful to any member of the congregation 2. not concerning moral, ethical, or spritual issues?

Can Pastors be sued for defamation of character for lying and causing intentional emotional harm to someone?


Asked on 6/19/00, 6:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel Press Chung & Press, P.C.

Re: Church Power

There is no such thing as a "government recognized" church, particularly in VA. The person or persons in lawful control of a property may have trespassers removed. This does not depend on whether the trespasser is personally harmful, nor on any religious matters.

A pastor is not immune from claims for defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

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Answered on 8/25/00, 5:50 pm


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