FLORIDA
Florida Baptist Witness
Sep 29, 2014
By NICOLE KALIL
Florida Baptist Witness
JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—In an increasingly litigious society, even the church is not safe.
Churches are attractive targets, as people think they have a better opportunity for financial gain by suing an organization rather than an individual.
“A generation ago, suing the church was unheard of,” said Gary Yeldell, attorney, mediator and founder of Wise Counsel Legal Services in Keystone Heights. “Today, there’s a cottage industry of plaintiff lawyers that target churches.”
Churches by their very nature have multiple vulnerabilities. From youth activities, nurseries, preschools and various other ministries to the community such as food pantries and transportation, there are innumerable opportunities for someone to take advantage of the church.
Yeldell said it’s just as common for members to sue as it is for nonmembers.
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