Letter from the Branch
April 9, 2012
TO ALL BODIES OF ELDERS
Re: Procedures when legal issues are involved
SUICIDES AND ATTEMPTED OR THREATENED SUICIDES
20. At times, judicial committees may deal with someone who is so distraught that he attempts
or threatens to commit suicide. In such cases it may be best for the committee to suspend the
hearing and focus on helping the person to regain his balance. In any event, the elders should treat
the person with extreme thoughtfulness and kindness.-ks10 chap. 5 par. 4; chap. 6 par. 16.
21. In addition, elders should immediately call the Legal Department for legal direction
whenever they learn of an actual suicide, a threatened suicide, or an attempted suicide, since legally
this is also defined as self-murder or felo-de-se. Whether a family member or close friend with
knowledge of the suicide threat or suicide attempt reports it to authorities is a personal decision for
him to make. (Gal. 6:5) Elders should not discourage anyone from reporting the matter. Family
members who are aware of the suicide threat or attempt should be encouraged to take positive steps
to prevent the person from harming himself.
