Q: Should we allow a registered sex offender to attend our church?

A: You should proceed carefully if faced with this situation. While the desire to minister to this individual is valid, you must give primary consideration to the protection of all members, especially children.

The best scenario is that you prepare for the situation before it arises. You should:

• Research local laws regarding sex offenders.
• Understand the type of sex offense committed by the sex offender.
• Adopt strategies to manage the situation.

In any event, you should consult legal counsel before working with sex offenders. Your attorney can help you understand privacy issues and legal requirements in your state.

Consult legal counsel before working with sex offenders. Your attorney can help you understand privacy issues and legal requirements in your state.

Recommended Reading

To learn more about this issue, read Sex Offenders: Should They Be Allowed to Attend Church?

*Important information: Brotherhood Mutual is pleased to provide Legal Assist as a complimentary resource. The services we offer through Legal Assist are intended to provide general legal information to our current and prospective policyholders.

The information we provide is intended to be helpful, but it does not constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for the advice from a licensed attorney in your area. Accordingly, no attorney/client relationship is created through this process, and no legal advice will be provided. We strongly encourage you to regularly consult with a local attorney as part of your risk management program.