Volunteer Screening?

[Mr. Van]

Oh boy...
Now as I think about it, due to the fact that I (as "Team Leader") am collecting and checking references, I am liable if anything "happens". Not FIRST, not my school, but me. Now I'm scared.

Do the Boy Scout "Troup Leaders" have the same situation (where they are clearly legally liable as individuals)? What about Little Leauge Team Managers? Does any other volunteer based organization place liability squarely on group leaders AND make them responsible for doing reference checks?

I'm thinking that our teams need to add "legal advice & council" to our "wish list" from potential sponsors & mentors.

Part of me thinks I'm over-reacting. Then I think that if something were to happen, I haven't a legal leg to stand on - unless I follow the policy to the letter. (And until I get an official notification from FIRST, age 18 means adult, regardless of student status or not.)

Am I wrong here?

-Mr. Van