Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers common questions about Christian Judicial System, guided Christian mediation, formal Christian resolution hearings, pastor referrals, volunteering, donations, and the limits of what CJS can provide.
What is Christian Judicial System?
Christian Judicial System is a faith-based dispute resolution ministry that helps Christians, churches, ministries, and organizations pursue biblical reconciliation, guided Christian mediation, and structured dispute resolution when appropriate.
Is CJS a civil court?
No. CJS is not a civil court, government agency, law firm, emergency service, or substitute for legal counsel. CJS operates as a faith-based dispute resolution ministry.
Does CJS provide legal advice?
No. CJS does not provide legal advice or represent any party as an attorney. Anyone with legal questions, legal deadlines, court filings, or concerns about legal rights should consult qualified legal counsel.
What is guided Christian mediation?
Guided Christian mediation is an informal process where a neutral Christian facilitator helps the parties communicate, clarify concerns, seek understanding, and work toward a voluntary written agreement.
How is mediation different from a formal hearing?
Mediation helps the parties work toward their own agreement. A formal hearing is more structured and may result in a written decision, recommendation, or resolution document depending on the process agreed to by the parties.
Do I have to start with mediation?
In many cases, CJS encourages parties to begin with mediation because reconciliation is often best pursued through honest conversation before a formal hearing is needed. Some matters, however, may require a different path.
What types of disputes may be appropriate for CJS?
CJS may be appropriate for certain disputes between Christians, churches, ministries, nonprofits, boards, leaders, or Christian organizations where the parties are willing to pursue biblical reconciliation or structured faith-based dispute resolution.
What types of matters are not appropriate for CJS?
CJS is not appropriate for emergencies, immediate danger, abuse requiring reporting, criminal investigation, crisis intervention, urgent legal deadlines, or matters requiring legal representation.
Can a pastor refer someone to CJS?
Yes. Pastors and ministry leaders may refer someone to CJS when the matter may benefit from Christian mediation, a written reconciliation agreement, or a structured faith-based resolution process. Consent from the person being referred should be obtained before submitting a referral.
What happens after I submit an inquiry?
CJS reviews the inquiry for safety, mission fit, and process fit. If the matter appears appropriate, CJS may contact you for an intake conversation and explain possible next steps.
Does submitting a form mean CJS has accepted my case?
No. Submitting a form, referral, prayer request, message, or inquiry does not mean CJS has accepted the matter. CJS must separately review and confirm whether it can assist.
Are outcomes guaranteed?
No. CJS cannot guarantee that a dispute will be accepted, resolved, settled, reconciled, or decided in a particular way. Outcomes depend on the parties, the facts, the process, and the willingness to participate.
Can I volunteer with CJS?
Yes. CJS welcomes interest from people who support the mission of biblical reconciliation and Christian dispute resolution. Some volunteer roles may require training, references, background checks, confidentiality commitments, or agreement with the Statement of Faith.
How can I support CJS financially?
You can support CJS by donating, partnering, referring appropriate matters, praying for the ministry, or helping connect CJS with churches, ministries, and Christian organizations.
Is the process confidential?
CJS seeks to handle inquiries and dispute resolution matters with care and discretion. However, confidentiality may have limits. CJS cannot promise confidentiality in situations involving immediate danger, abuse, criminal conduct, mandatory reporting concerns, court orders, legal obligations, or other circumstances where disclosure may be required or appropriate.
Participants should not submit highly sensitive legal, medical, financial, or personal records unless CJS specifically requests them and explains how they should be provided.
Still Have Questions?
If your question is not answered here, visit the Start Here page or contact CJS for general information.