Legal Definitions - minute book

A minute book is an official record-keeping document used to formally document the proceedings, decisions, and actions taken during official meetings or court sessions. It serves as a permanent, authoritative account of what transpired, ensuring transparency and providing a historical record for legal and administrative purposes.

• Example 1: Corporate Board Meeting

  The board of directors for "InnovateTech Solutions," a software development company, holds a quarterly meeting to discuss strategic initiatives. During this meeting, they vote to approve a new budget for research and development, appoint a new Chief Financial Officer, and decide to expand into a new international market. All these discussions, motions, votes, and final decisions are meticulously recorded by the corporate secretary in the company's minute book.

  Explanation: In this context, the minute book acts as the official legal record of the board's actions. It provides irrefutable proof of the decisions made, who was present, and how votes were cast, which is crucial for corporate governance, compliance, and potential future legal challenges or audits.

• Example 2: Municipal Court Proceedings

  In a local municipal court, the clerk is responsible for documenting the daily proceedings. On a particular day, the court hears several traffic violation cases, a minor misdemeanor, and a small claims dispute. For each case, the clerk records the date, the names of the parties involved, the judge's rulings, any pleas entered, and the sentences or orders issued, all within the court's official minute book.

  Explanation: Here, the minute book serves as the court's formal record of its judicial actions. It ensures that there is a precise, chronological account of every hearing and decision, which is essential for maintaining judicial transparency, providing a basis for appeals, and ensuring the integrity of the legal process.