Legal Definitions - divide the assembly

In parliamentary procedure, to divide the assembly means to formally request a precise count of votes on a motion, especially when the outcome of an initial, less formal vote (like a voice vote or a show of hands) is unclear, close, or disputed. This action compels the presiding officer to conduct a more rigorous method of counting votes, such as having members stand to be counted, walk through designated doors, or cast individual ballots, to ensure an accurate and verifiable result.

• Example 1: Community Homeowners' Association Meeting

  During an annual meeting of a homeowners' association, members are voting on a proposal to increase monthly dues to fund a new community pool. After a lively debate, the president calls for a voice vote. Based on the volume, the president declares, "The 'ayes' have it; the motion passes." However, several members who strongly oppose the increase believe the vote was much closer than declared and that many "nays" were not adequately heard. One member stands and states, "I move to divide the assembly."

  This action forces the president to conduct a more formal count, perhaps by asking members to stand up to be counted for "yes" and then for "no," ensuring an exact tally of votes for and against the dues increase. It prevents a potentially inaccurate outcome based on a subjective assessment of a voice vote.

• Example 2: Corporate Board of Directors Meeting

  A corporation's board of directors is voting on a significant acquisition proposal. After a lengthy discussion, the chairperson asks for a show of hands. The chairperson quickly assesses the raised hands and announces, "The motion to approve the acquisition passes." A director, who had meticulously tracked the arguments and believes the support was not as overwhelming as it appeared, feels the count was too quick and potentially inaccurate for such a critical financial decision. The director then says, "I request a division of the assembly."

  By invoking this procedure, the director ensures that a more precise method, such as a roll-call vote where each director's vote is individually recorded, or a formal ballot count, is performed. This guarantees transparency and accuracy for a decision with major financial implications, leaving no doubt about the exact number of votes cast by each board member.

• Example 3: University Faculty Senate Meeting

  At a university faculty senate meeting, professors are voting on a controversial amendment to the academic integrity policy. The presiding officer calls for a vote by a show of hands. After a quick glance, the officer declares the amendment has failed. However, a group of faculty members who strongly supported the amendment believes that many hands were not clearly visible from the front of the room, or that the count was simply misjudged. One professor then formally requests to "divide the assembly."

  This request mandates a more precise counting method, such as having faculty members stand in designated areas to be counted, ensuring that every vote for and against the policy amendment is accurately recorded. It provides a definitive and verifiable outcome, preventing any lingering doubt about the true will of the faculty on an important academic matter.