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Simple English definitions for legal terms
parliamentarian
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A quick definition of parliamentarian:
A parliamentarian is someone who helps people follow the rules when they have meetings. They are like a teacher who knows all the rules and can help the leader of the meeting make sure everyone is following them. The parliamentarian can give advice, but they don't make the final decision. That's up to the leader of the meeting.
A more thorough explanation:
A parliamentarian is a consultant who is trained in parliamentary law. They advise the chair and others on matters of parliamentary law and procedure. The parliamentarian is often a professional and only advises, they never "rule" on procedural issues.
During a meeting, the parliamentarian's role is purely advisory and consultative. The chair has the final ruling on questions of order or parliamentary inquiries. The parliamentarian's advice can be followed or disregarded by the chair.
During a meeting, a member raises a point of order. The chair is unsure of how to proceed, so they consult with the parliamentarian. The parliamentarian advises the chair on the proper procedure to follow. The chair then makes the final ruling based on the parliamentarian's advice.
Another example is when a committee is unsure of how to proceed with a particular issue. They consult with the parliamentarian, who advises them on the proper parliamentary procedure to follow.
These examples illustrate how a parliamentarian provides guidance and advice on parliamentary law and procedure, but ultimately, the chair has the final say in making rulings and decisions.