What is a Parliamentarian?
Parliamentarians perform a variety of functions, based on the specific needs of the organization being served. Most commonly, a parliamentarian will attend meetings, including conventions and annual meetings sitting close to the presiding officer to provide advice and assistance during the meeting.
Beyond assisting in meetings, a parliamentarian can serve as consultant, providing advice on the preparation of agendas, the drafting of motions, resolutions, and committee or board reports. Some presiding officers and committee chairs may request that the parliamentarian write scripts for guidance during the meeting.
Parliamentarians assist clients with drafting bylaws, revising bylaws, and bylaw amendments, or may prepare a formal parliamentary opinion to help in interpreting an unclear or disputed bylaw provision. Training workshops (e.g., on rules of order, presiding techniques or drafting minutes and reports), and may also be provided.
