Legal Liability Issues FAQ's

FAQ’s

Legal & Liability Issues

What requirements does the Archdiocese have regarding chaperones and drivers?

· No youth may be utilized as drivers or chaperones.

· All drivers must provide proof of a valid license and insurance.

· The Archdiocesan Policy states that chaperones and drivers must be18 years old and graduated from High School, however the Chancellor strongly recommends that no one under the age of 21 be allowed to drive or chaperone for a Jr. High or High School event.

When do I need to provide a permission and release form?

· Any time you take youth off of the parish or school property.

· Youth who are involved in regular on-going programs at the parish site (such as Religious Education) should have a release form on file for the year.

Where can I get a copy of a Permission and Release Form?

You can obtain a copy of a Permission and Release Form by accessing the web site for the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at www.catholiccincinnati.org/youthmin or by calling your Regional Office.

Can I make up my own Permission and Release Form?

Yes. As long as you incorporate the following items:

· Name of youth

· Name of parish/school

· Name of adult in charge

· Date of activity or regular time for program

· Location of activity

· Telephone number where youth can be reached in case of a family emergency

· Starting time or date, ending time or date

· General description of program or activities which are involved

· Method of transportation, if any

· Cost, if any

· A place for the parent to give permission for the child to participate in the program and to receive emergency medical care (including pertinent medical information)

· A release of the Archdiocese, parish and school from liability in the event of accident or injury to the youth

· A place for a written signature and date

· Telephone number where parent or guardian can be reached in case of an emergency

Who needs to be oriented to the Child Protection Decree and fingerprinted?

All priests, employees and regular volunteers. Regular volunteers are described as “a catechist, scout leader, coach, server coordinator, etc. who functions in a regular, significant relationship with children. This includes interns, student teachers and others in a similar capacity. Moreover, any volunteer who works with children more than three hours a month or who works with children more frequently than once a month.” (Child Protection Decree, 2003, p. 3)