Religious & Nonprofit Organizations Investigation & Crisis Response

Churches and other organizations faced with allegations of improper conduct such as abuse or financial misconduct face a complex array of issues and concerns. Jackson Walker’s investigations and crisis response team has the comprehensive experience and deep bench to help address the exposure to litigation risk, engagement with law enforcement, personnel issues, leadership and management transitions, and communications challenges these situations pose – all at once.

We help organizations navigating crisis situations by quickly sorting relevant information and organizing facts into a message and response plan. Because of our deep trial background, we’re equipped to help our clients’ leadership and communications teams craft first-response messages that consider the needs of key audiences. And where financial misconduct is an issue, our attorneys bring their unique experience to bear in identifying, analyzing, and addressing financial misfeasance.

Our work as “outside general counsel” for a number of churches, religious groups, and nonprofit organizations gives our attorneys practical insight into the key constituents of these organizations and how their mission and values drive their operations and guide their efforts to safeguard those in their care. We serve these organizations as comprehensive, proactive, resourceful, real-world counselors. We also assist the in-house legal teams of our clients, including Fortune 500 and other commercial companies, in navigating all aspects of sexual misconduct claims.

Jackson Walker is prepared to hit the ground running to help churches, religious groups, and nonprofit organizations improve existing safeguards for children, the elderly, incapacitated individuals, and other vulnerable populations, and address misconduct allegations. We have the experience to tailor policies and solutions to your organization’s specific needs and concerns. We work with “go-to” consultants and partners in preventing and responding to misconduct, and these existing relationships help our clients respond quickly and effectively.

Jackson Walker attorneys have extensive experience working with large and small churches, religious organizations, and nonprofits to critically examine current policies for safeguarding vulnerable populations, identify weaknesses and risks, work through existing situations, and adjust policies and practices to protect those entrusted to their care.

Tim Davis

Tim Davis

Partner, Fort Worth
817.334.7270

Jennifer Freel

Jennifer Freel

Partner, Austin
512.236.2330

Erica Benites Giese

Erica Benites Giese

Partner, San Antonio
210.978.7791

Joe Magliolo

Joe Magliolo

Partner, Dallas
214.953.6007