Entitle Church/NP Investigations
When a church or ministry receives an allegation of a hostile workplace, sexual harassment, or other misconduct, leadership faces three responsibilities at once: protecting the people involved, protecting the integrity of the process, and protecting the church itself. An investigation conducted (or perceived to be conducted) by interested insiders can undermine all three concerns.
Simms Showers LLP provides independent, attorney-led investigations for churches and religious organizations, giving leadership a credible, confidential, and legally sound basis for decision-making. Our attorneys not only bring experience with employment and misconduct investigations, but also a deep, practical understanding of church governance, polity, and denominational structures, so the process respects the church as an institution while meeting the standards a serious allegation demands.
Why independence matters
An investigation conducted by outside counsel signals to staff, congregants, and any reviewing authorities that the church took the matter seriously and did not attempt to manage it internally. It also protects leadership: a defensible, well-documented process is often the difference between a matter that is resolved and one that becomes a lasting source of litigation risk or congregational division.
Our Process
- Independent Review of Relevant Facts and Documentation
We begin by reviewing all available documentation, including reports, correspondence, church records, governing policies and procedures, relevant law enforcement findings, denominational materials, and any other information made available to us. This establishes a factual foundation before any interviews take place.
- Interviews and Fact-Gathering
Where appropriate, we conduct interviews first with alleged victims and their corroborating witnesses, then alleged perpetrators and their corroborating witnesses, followed by any prior investigators and other persons with relevant knowledge. Interviews are conducted professionally and confidentially, with sensitivity to the individuals involved and the pastoral context in which the matter arose.
- Findings and Recommendations
We deliver a confidential report protected by attorney-client privilege and, where useful, a presentation to church leadership summarizing the Firm’s findings and providing practical recommendations for appropriate next steps, whether that involves policy changes, personnel action, communication with the congregation, or other governance measures.
Confidentiality
Investigations are conducted under attorney-client privilege where applicable, and with careful attention to the confidentiality expectations of everyone involved, the church, its leadership, and individuals who come forward with information.
Who We Work With
We are engaged by church boards, pastors, denominational leadership, and church administrators seeking a credible, independent process, whether in response to a specific complaint, as part of a broader governance review, or as a precautionary measure before a matter escalates.
If your church or ministry is facing an allegation that requires an independent, confidential investigation, contact Simms Showers LLP to discuss how we can help.
This page is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
