Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

I worked as an administrative assistant sometime ago at a church. After she was removed, the former pastor of the church (at that time I worked there) is now suing the main church organization as well as the new present pastor for Deformation of Character. The church organization may be accusing her (the former pastor) of mishandling funds of the church, and now her lawyer has sent me a subpoena for a personal appearance at a deposition.

When I worked there I never signed checks nor did any money transfers. I just kept the records which she gave me and just did what she asked me to do as an employee. I am not a certified accountant. Will I be responsible for anything? Can I not get involved in this? Will I be accused of anything? The former pastor never told me about this and I did not know until I got the letter from her attorney. Thanks.


Asked on 12/28/09, 12:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Melvin C. Belli The Belli Law Firm

If you were just the bookkeeper and were not responsible for any of the mishandling of the funds then probably not. If you had any knowledge or part in the alleged mishandling then you might have something to be concerned about. Have any criminal charges been filed? If so then I would be more cautious and seek the counsel of an attorney to discuss the matter and perhaps represent you at the deposition so you don�t become involved in this mess.

Good luck and hope that helps.

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Answered on 1/03/10, 1:21 am


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