ALTERNATIVE PATHS

• Depending on your situation, other resources may offer varying paths to resolution. These include:

• Law enforcement, which should be your first stop if your situation involves potential criminal activity. If you go this route, do not approach church officials or discuss the matter with others without asking law enforcement first, for fear of disrupting a potential investigation.

• A civil lawsuit, which may cover a wide variety of issues. Additionally, an attorney may be able to assist with a criminal referral. As with law enforcement, do not discuss the matter with others without clearing it with your attorney. Doing so could jeopardize your case.

• Media coverage. Many a Title IV case, previously deemed not “of weighty and material importance to the ministry of the church,” suddenly became important once the media became involved. Traditional media — TV and radio stations, newspapers, etc., typically are a tough pitch. Religion just doesn’t get the attention it used to. But if it’s big enough, or it involves sex, it may be sexy enough to get coverage.