Judicial Council

The denomination's highest judicial body — ensuring that the actions of the church align with its Constitution and the Book of Discipline.

The Church's Supreme Court

The Judicial Council serves as the denomination's highest court. Comprising nine members — both clergy and laity — elected by the General Conference, the Council determines the constitutionality of church law and actions, ensuring accountability across every level of the denomination.

Through its published decisions, the Judicial Council builds a body of church jurisprudence that guides bishops, annual conferences, and local churches in faithfully applying the Book of Discipline. All decisions are publicly accessible, reflecting the UMC's commitment to transparency in governance.

Core Responsibilities

The Judicial Council ensures that every part of the church operates within the bounds of the UMC Constitution and the Book of Discipline.

Constitutional Review

The Judicial Council determines whether actions taken by General Conference, bishops, annual conferences, and other church bodies comply with the UMC Constitution.

Declaratory Decisions

Church bodies may request declaratory decisions — formal rulings on the meaning, application, or constitutionality of provisions in the Book of Discipline.

Appeals

The Judicial Council hears appeals from lower church courts, ensuring that clergy and laity receive fair treatment under church law.

Discipline Interpretation

Through its published decisions, the Judicial Council provides authoritative interpretation of the Book of Discipline, building a body of church case law.

How It Works

From submission to published decision — here's how a case moves through the Judicial Council.

Submission

A request for a declaratory decision or an appeal is submitted to the Judicial Council using official forms and following published rules of practice and procedure.

Docketing

The Council places the matter on its docket for an upcoming meeting. The docket is published so parties and the church at large can follow scheduled items.

Hearing & Deliberation

The nine-member Council reviews briefs, hears oral arguments when appropriate, and deliberates. Both clergy and lay perspectives are represented in every decision.

Published Decision

Decisions are published in a searchable database, creating a permanent record of church jurisprudence. All decisions are publicly accessible for transparency.

Browse Judicial Council Decisions

Questions About the Judicial Council

Understanding the judicial process of The United Methodist Church.

Browse FAQs on Ask-the-UMC

Accountability at Every Level

The Judicial Council ensures that the United Methodist Church lives by the rules it sets for itself — protecting the rights of clergy, laity, and congregations.

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