Churches and ministries face legal issues that differ in important ways from those confronting ordinary businesses and nonprofit organizations. Questions involving tax-exempt status, religious liberty, governance, employment, property, and internal disputes must be addressed with respect for both the law and the church's faith-based mission.

With more than two decades of pastoral ministry experience, attorney Kerry G. Tilley understands the practical realities facing pastors, boards, and congregations. The result is counsel that respects your beliefs, leadership structure, and ministry objectives—without losing sight of the legal details.

Thoughtful counsel. Practical protection.

Legal support through
every season of ministry.

From formation and everyday governance to a serious dispute, timely advice can help leaders act with confidence and preserve the ministry's focus.

Formation, governance & compliance

Incorporation, bylaws, board responsibilities, tax-exempt compliance, governance policies, and financial oversight built around the church's mission.

People, policies & protection

Employment and staff management, pastoral transitions and compensation, child-protection policies, mandatory reporting, and practical risk management.

Property, contracts & stewardship

Property transactions, zoning and land use, contracts, facility use, and the legal questions that come with growth and changing ministry needs.

Disputes, discipline & response

Church discipline, member and governance disputes, internal investigations, denominational relationships, religious liberty concerns, and litigation.

Prevention is part of stewardship

Strengthen the foundation
before a challenge arises.

Outdated bylaws, unclear lines of authority, incomplete child-safety procedures, inadequate employment policies, and poor documentation can expose a church and its leaders to unnecessary risk.

We help identify vulnerabilities, strengthen governing documents and policies, and implement preventive measures that protect the ministry while preserving its faith-based principles.

• Tax Exempt Status and Compliance

• Church Discipline and Member Disputes

• Property Use and Zoning Laws

• Improper Compliance and Bylaws

• Employment Law and Staff Management

• Child Protection and Liability

• Digital Ministry and Intellectual Property

• Religious Freedom and Discrimination Laws

• Financial Oversight and Stewardship