Why hiring a parliamentarian is a smart move

Not to be confused with individuals who are typically elected (or appointed) to a political or legislative body (i.e. Members of Parliament, provincial/territorial legislature, or Senators), a meeting parliamentarian is someone who is appointed by an organization or its members to provide advice and assistance on meeting rules and procedures. This individual, who is commonly a professional consultant, must possess strong knowledge of those rules and procedures and must expertly advise the presiding officer, the organization, and/or its members on matters of parliamentary procedure.

A Parliamentarian helps to ensure that meetings are conducted properly and in a manner that abides by the rules of the organization. They will attend meetings, most notably conventions and annual meetings, and serve as an on-site procedural resource to the presiding officer as required. They will often provide advice on procedural matters in advance of the meeting and may also assist with the preparation of motions and resolutions, or the drafting/review of meeting documents such as notices, agendas, or scripts. Most parliamentarians will also offer workshops or other training opportunities, will provide a written procedural opinion, will help guide elections, or will assist with bylaw and policy amendments. They will also be willing to chair, or preside over, a meeting when required to help navigate challenging or contentious matters and to provide independent, non-biased leadership of the meeting.

Utilizing a professional Parliamentarian during meetings provides a certainty of neutrality during sticky discussions, allows for teaching moments during meetings as different procedural rules and terminology are implemented, ensures that the relevant legislation is also being referenced, and confirms that the organization’s bylaws and rules are being correctly interpreted and upheld.

As Robert's Rules of Order notes, 'the parliamentarian's most important work may well be performed before the convention opens', essentially aiming to mitigate problems or confusing situations before they occur. Or as Benjamin Franklin once stated, "If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!' Organizations who are seeking the support of a Parliamentarian are encouraged to proactively engage those services well in advance of the actual meeting.