Church Jurisdiction
/ˈtʃɜːrtʃ dʒʊrɪsˌdɪkʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) The authority or power exercised by ecclesiastical bodies to govern church members and matters according to religious laws and policies.
The bishop's church jurisdiction covers disciplinary actions within the diocese.
- (n.) The legal scope within which a church or religious organization may adjudicate or enforce its rules and decisions.
Church jurisdiction does not extend to civil legal disputes involving members.
Forms
- church jurisdictions
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Church jurisdiction typically involves both spiritual and administrative authority and should be clearly distinguished from secular jurisdiction in legal drafting.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.