CLS Chapter Formation

 

Thank you for your interest in organizing a chapter of the Christian Legal Society. We appreciate your willingness and prayerfulness to consider this possibility. As always, our mission, "to be the national network of skilled lawyers, law students and laypeople committed to loving and serving Jesus Christ and advocating reconciliation, justice and religious liberty," will be accomplished as the grass roots ministry of CLS grows in communities such as yours.

Purpose of a Chapter

A chapter is a wonderful way in which to join with others who share the same faith in Christ and with those who face similar challenges and opportunities in the field of law and their lives. Hopefully, your time meeting together will encourage the following: "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:23

Network

One of the most important aspects of the local chapter is the link with CLS and the network of CLS members around the country. Membership in CLS is strongly encouraged and required (according to the chapter by-laws) for the core group of leaders if your chapter becomes affiliated or listed with CLS. We would also appreciate your help in recruiting new members.

Chapter Status With CLS

Any three or more CLS attorney members may form an affiliated chapter of CLS pursuant to the below procedure. Only an affiliated chapter is authorized to use the CLS logo and name. CLS chapters may become affiliated under CLS' group tax-exemption letter with the IRS and must have by-laws on file with CLS.  The group tax-exemption listing enables your group to accept tax-deductible contributions as the local affiliate of a nonprofit corporation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Some chapters focus specifically on public ministries (legal aid) in their communities. If there is interest within your chapter to establish a legal aid clinic to benefit your local community, please see our Legal Aid pages.

Local Chapter Leaders Manual

The attorney chapter manual includes helpful documents on nearly every subject a chapter can address, including the threefold ministry model and all of the proper affiliation papers. The strength and guidance of the Lord (Ps. 32:8) is vital to bring together a committed group of volunteers with a like purpose. Our resources are readily available to assist you, and we pray weekly for our members.

Click here to find the CLS Chapter Manual, Bylaws, Affiliation Agreement and other documents on the CLS Chapter Resource page. 

For more information on forming a chapter please contact us at memmin@clsnet.org.

May the Lord give you wisdom and encouragement as you seek to serve attorneys through Him.