CLS is a founding member in good standing of the Evangelical Council on Financial Accountability (www.ECFA.org). CLS receives no government support for any of its programs or ministries.  CLS programs are supported by the dues and generous support of its members.  100% of CLS board members are donors and supporters of CLS ministries.  The CLS Advocacy, Student and Legal Aid Ministries also are critically dependent upon partnering organizations, foundations, and private donors for ongoing support.

CLS financial statements are audited annually by a certified public accountant.   All books and records of CLS are available for inspection by its members for any proper purpose at reasonable times at its Springfield, VA. office.  In addition, any CLS member, donor or friend can review copies of CLS' Audited Financial Statements, Annual Reports, Annual IRS Report (Form 990) and other key documentation posted on this website by selecting items from the menu to the left.

• MinistryWatch.com (www.MinistryWatch.com) has named CLS one of 30 "Shining Light" Christian ministries.  "Christian Legal Society is truly one of the 'best of the best,'" said Rusty Lenoard, MinistryWatch.com founder.  MinistryWatch.com makes its annual selections based on both quantitative and qualitative criteria, said Rod Pitzer, Managing Director of Research for MinistryWatch.com.  "Making the selection is challenging, given the selfless work so many fine ministries do," Pitzer said.  Pitzer added that these ministries were truly "exemplary" in the following categories:

1. They have a legitimate non-profit ministry and purpose.
2. They treat donors fairly by earning a Transparency Grade of "A" from MinistryWatch.com
3. They are unashamed of being identified as an evangelical Christian ministry.
4. MinistryWatch.com knows of no issue that would be of concern to donors.

Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) has awarded CLS its coveted 4-star rating for sound fiscal management.  In communicating this award, Trent Stamp, Charity  Navigator's president wrote, "Less than a quarter of the charities we evaluate have received our highest rating, indicating that Christian Legal Society outperforms the majority of nonprofits in America with respect to fiscal responsibility.  This 'exceptional' designation from Charity Navigator differentiates Christian Legal Society from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worth of their trust."