Legal Question in Business Law in California

What steps to take when a pastor has purchased computers without the church authorization through the church's tax ID?


Asked on 2/21/10, 5:51 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Gordon Firemark Law Offices of Gordon P. Firemark

Sounds like a full investigation is in order. Then, the Pastor needs to be reprimanded, fired, or whatever else is appropriate.

If criminal activity is involved, bring in the authorities as soon as possible.

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Answered on 2/26/10, 5:57 pm
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Mr. Firemark may be 100% correct, or way off base, depending upon additional facts not mentioned in your question but highly relevant to the possible issues.

First, how many computers, and for what ostensible purpose? If he bought 25 computers for resale, that's one thing; if he bought three computers to equip the church's office, that's another.

Second, what does the pastor's employment contract, job description, or other governing document say about his or her authority to do Caesar's work for the church, in addition to the Lord's? Some churches have tight control over business matters through a committee of elders or some other established protocol. Other churches give the minister broad latitude to make earthly business decisions himself or herself, including hiring landscapers to keep the grounds pretty, buying pencils and scratch pads and hymnals, and yes, even computers.

If this was way outside his/her authority, move on to Mr. Firemark's authority.

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Answered on 2/26/10, 7:33 pm


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