Better Outcomes
Help when you're facing a dispute, a legal threat or a court matter
No matter what you're facing, we're here to help you find a better outcome.
Maybe a letter has arrived, a complaint has been made, or someone has told you they're taking you to court. Maybe you just sense things are heading that way. These situations can be frightening, and it's easy to feel alone. We count it a privilege to support people through hard times, and we'd be glad to listen, help you think through your situation, and help you work out the best way through.
We are not lawyers, and we don't give legal advice. We'll talk with you and help you think and pray through your options. Sometimes the best way forward will include getting a lawyer, and if so we'll help you work out what kind of help you need and how to find it.
Why a ministry is involved
Jesus told us to "come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court" (Matthew 5:25), and Paul urged believers to settle disputes wisely rather than rushing to court (1 Corinthians 6:1–8). Scripture puts real weight on resolving things early, honestly and fairly.
It is also important for our Christian witness that we "do justly" (Micah 6:8) and, as much as depends on us, "live peaceably with all men" (Romans 12:18). This doesn't mean we never fight a matter, but we should humbly consider all options first.
This work grows out of our booklet Biblical and Legal Foundations for Thriving in a Hostile World, which helps Christians represent Jesus well when hard questions and pressure come.
How we help
Listen
We start by understanding your situation: the facts (letters, emails, contracts, any court papers) and the story behind them, including how the other side might see it.
Plan
Together we think through a way forward. Our starting point is simple:
- A fair outcome is usually better than a "winner takes all" fight, which tends to be long, costly and uncertain.
- Where the other party has a genuine grievance, it's worth taking seriously and putting right.
- We aim to actually be reasonable, not just look reasonable, because that's right before God and will likely be viewed favourably by a court.
- If court can't be avoided, we'll encourage you to get proper legal help and support you through it.
Connect
Where you need it, we'll help you work out what professional help you need, such as a lawyer, a financial adviser or another specialist, and how to approach them.
Support you
We'll keep supporting and praying with you as you put the plan into action.
What to expect from us
- We're here to help you reach a just outcome. We won't try to "get you out" of anything. If you've caused real loss or harm to someone, part of the way forward will be making it right.
- We have no confidentiality privilege. Unlike a lawyer, we can't keep everything you tell us confidential, and we may have to report some matters to the authorities. If you're facing a serious criminal matter, please go straight to a lawyer.
- We're glad to help. There's no charge to talk with us. If a matter turns out to be very long or complex, we'll have an honest conversation with you before anything changes.
- We can't promise any particular result. You remain responsible for your own decisions.
Prevention as well as cure
You don't have to wait until things go wrong. If you lead a church, ministry or small organisation and want to steer clear of legal and regulatory trouble, we're happy to talk that through as well.
"Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit."
John 12:24
Sometimes the way to a better future means letting go of something from the past.
Get in touch
Contact is by email only until we've agreed to take on your matter. Write to us with a short outline of your situation, and we'll get back to you.
Please don't send original documents. Any information you share is kept private and used only to help you, except where the law requires us to report it.
Important: Be Fruitful Ministries is not a law firm, and nothing we say is legal advice. For advice about your particular legal situation, please speak with a qualified lawyer. If you have a court deadline, don't wait for us; get legal help straight away.