If Trayvon Martin's family sues over his death, they may target the homeowners association of the neighborhood where the shooting took place instead of George Zimmerman himself.

If Zimmerman's claim that he shot the unarmed 17-year-old in self-defense is upheld by prosecutors, a judge or a jury, Florida's Stand Your Ground law would protect him from a lawsuit. However, his clearance or acquittal wouldn't stop Martin's parents from suing The Retreat at Twin Lakes homeowners association - and its insurance policies and assets would make it a much more lucrative target than Zimmerman, even if he is eventually convicted of a crime.

Attorneys say that part of the case would likely be a newsletter sent by the association to residents in February, which is the same month as the shooting that said Zimmerman was the go-to person for residents who had been the victim of a crime.

Under the heading "Neighborhood Watch," the newsletter's message recommended that residents first call police and then "please contact our Captain, George Zimmerman ... so he can be aware and help address the issue with other residents."

That seeming endorsement of Zimmerman exposes the 7-year-old association to possible legal action by Martin's parents, homeowners association attorneys said.