It is hardly surprising that, when it comes to insurance concerns, those same agents are the ones who provide coverage and advice. Unfortunately, this arrangement of helpful sharing of expertise no longer is viewed as benign in some circles. Lawsuits involving religious organizations are on the rise, and both the clergy and insurance agents are targets. There are several problems facing insurance agents who are involved in providing coverage to churches, and they can be exacerbated if the agent is a member of the board of trustees. We talked to Clarance E. Hagglund, a litigation attorney practicing primarily in insurance coverage, about these issues.
Courts are reluctant to touch cases involving religious doctrine.
However, secular activities are not protected under the First Amendment, an expert warns. Wrongful discharge, sexual harassment and intentional acts are considered to be in the secular domain. Courts are very reluctant to touch cases involving religious doctrine. However, he goes on to warn that secular activities are not protected under the First Amendment. Matters such as wrongful discharge, sexual harassment and intentional acts or torts all are considered to be in the secular domain.