When is a formal judicial process typically pursued?

A formal judicial process is pursued after an accused individual is found guilty, as this signifies that the investigation and deliberation have been conducted in accordance with established church protocols. The formal judicial process serves as a means to address the consequences of the actions of the individual and to bring resolution to the matter within the church community.

In a church context, once the guilt of an individual has been established through a thorough examination of evidence and testimonies, the formal judicial process allows for appropriate actions to be taken. This may include notification of the congregation, disciplinary measures, or restorative actions aimed at reconciliation and healing within the community.

The other options indicate misunderstandings of the judicial process. Pursuing a formal process based solely on majority agreement or upon request by church members does not necessarily indicate that the necessary legal or ethical evaluations have taken place, nor does it ensure a fair and just handling of the situation. Additionally, a lack of evidence is not a basis for initiating a formal judicial process; rather, it often leads to a decision not to proceed. The focus of such processes is to respond to established guilt and to ensure that appropriate steps can be taken to address the implications of that finding.