The law generally provides employers with important protections when responding to a reference letter request.

Many courts and legislatures have recognized a number of legal defenses that are available to employers when responding to a request for a reference letter.

Youth pastors should be careful to treat as confidential any reference letter they receive on a current or former employee or volunteer worker.

However, liability may still arise in some cases, such as if the employer acts with malice in drafting a reference letter.

Unfortunately, a reference letter can expose a denominational agency to legal liability if not handled properly.