CHURCH OF CHRIST IN HOLLYWOOD v. Superior Court
Opinion
Opinion
Mallano, J.
In the trial court, a church sought a restraining order to prevent an expelled member from engaging in disruptive conduct on church property. The trial court denied relief, finding that the right of free speech permitted the former member to enter the premises and express her contrary religious views. The trial court also found that the parties’ dispute involved religious doctrine, precluding the intervention of civil courts.
We conclude that the church, like any nonsectarian property owner, may decide whom to allow on its premises. Nor does this case require the resolution of a dispute over religious doctrine. Accordingly, we direct the trial court to grant the requested relief.
I
Background
The Church of Christ in Hollywood (Church), located at 600 North Rossmore Avenue in Los Angeles, is a nonprofit religious corporation. Dr. Daniel A. Rodriguez is the minister. Pursuant to a set of bylaws, the Church is governed by a board of trustees, including officers such as president, secretary, and treasurer. The Church owns the land on which it is situated.
Lady Cage-Barile is a former member of the congregation who disagrees with how Dr. Rodriguez and others guide the…