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Arizona Supreme Court: It’s the Church’s Call What Clergy Must Report
The justices said First Amendment protections shield clergy who withhold abuse disclosures learned in confession or other confidential religious communications.
- On Thursday, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled that clergy are not required to report child abuse if learned through confidential religious communications, shielding them from state mandatory reporting requirements.
- The ruling stems from a 2020 lawsuit against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and two bishops, following a father's 2011 confession of child abuse during church disciplinary proceedings.
- Vice Chief Justice John R. Lopez IV wrote that the First Amendment prohibits courts from questioning a clergy member's interpretation of religious doctrine, reinstating the dismissal of the lawsuit.
- Reversing an Arizona Court of Appeals decision, the court asserted that judges cannot determine if church defendants correctly interpreted what constitutes a confidential confession under their faith.
- The court emphasized its decision does not grant religious institutions general immunity, noting courts may intervene if evidence suggests fraud or collusion for secular purposes, losing Religion Clauses protection.
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Arizona MirrorReposted by 
pinalcentral.com
pinalcentral.comHigh court says churches, not judges, define a ‘confession’ when it comes to reporting child abuse
(Photo via Getty Images) This story deals with sexual abuse and assault of minors. If you or someone you know has been a victim of this crime call 800-656-HOPE for 24/7 help and support. The Arizona Supreme Court sided with religious leaders this week who argued the state’s clergy-penitent privilege law shielded them from reporting child sexual abuse to authorities. And in declaring that any intervention by the courts would violat…
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Total News Sources10
Leaning Left1Leaning Right3Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
13%
C 50%
R 37%
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