OpenPew
Legal Disclosure & Limitation of Liability
EFFECTIVE JULY 1st, 2025
OpenPew.report (“OpenPew”) is a third-party platform created to help churches securely receive and respond to reports of misconduct, abuse, or unethical behavior. We provide tools, process support, and guidance—but we are not attorneys and do not provide legal advice or representation. Nothing on this site or within our services should be considered legal counsel.
By using OpenPew, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms:
1. Not a Legal Authority or Final Arbiter
OpenPew does not function as a legal authority, investigative body, or enforcement agency. We do not make final determinations regarding the truth or outcome of any report. All decisions related to investigations, actions taken, or personnel matters remain the sole responsibility of the participating church or organization.
2. Investigation Support Is Advisory Only
When requested, OpenPew may assist with investigative processes by providing planning tools, documentation templates, referral resources, or general support. However, all investigative actions are initiated, directed, and concluded by the church or its designated representatives. OpenPew’s role is strictly supportive and non-binding.
3. No Guarantee of Outcome
While OpenPew seeks to equip churches with helpful processes and guidance, we do not guarantee any specific outcome related to a report, investigation, or response. Each case is unique, and outcomes will depend on the actions and decisions of the church leadership team.
4. Information Is Provided As-Is
While OpenPew seeks to equip churches with helpful processes and guidance, we do not guarantee any specific outcome related to a report, investigation, or response. Each case is unique, and outcomes will depend on the actions and decisions of the church leadership team.
6. Confidentiality
& Data Use
OpenPew receives and screens each submitted report to ensure it includes enough detail to be actionable. This initial review is not an investigation or judgment of truth but a check for clarity and completeness. If key information is missing, we may request additional input—anonymously if needed—to support a more effective response.
The church’s designated response team is notified immediately upon report submission and has full access to the report throughout the screening process. Screening support is intended to assist—not delay—timely action and decision-making by church leadership.
OpenPew does not make final determinations, interpret allegations, or enforce outcomes. Our role is to support your process with clarity, consistency, and care.
7. Continued Responsibility of the Church
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the church or organization using OpenPew to review, respond to, and follow up on any reports submitted through the platform. OpenPew provides structure and support—but the ethical, pastoral, and legal responsibility lies with the church itself.
8. Data Retention After Cancellation
If a church or organization cancels its service with OpenPew, all associated report data, communication records, and investigation notes will be securely retained for 15 calendar days from the date of cancellation. After that period, all data will be permanently deleted from our system and cannot be recovered.
It is the responsibility of the church to download or archive any necessary records before that window closes. OpenPew will make a reasonable effort to notify account administrators before deletion, but is not responsible for lost or unretrieved data after the 15-day retention period.
For any questions regarding this disclosure, or to speak with our team, please contact us at support@openpew.report.
When It’s Hard to Lead,
Lead Well.
Leadership is tested not in the easy moments, but in the ones that feel uncertain or costly. That’s when your response speaks loudest. OpenPew helps you face those moments with confidence—not by taking over, but by providing a clear, trusted framework to handle what’s hard. When something surfaces, you won’t have to scramble or go it alone. You’ll be ready—with the tools, structure, and support to lead with courage and integrity.