Charter

[Guest Bob Smith]

If a private club has a charter, what does that mean? And what are the advantages?

[Robert B Fish]

If a private club has a charter, what does that mean? And what are the advantages?

Typically a charter is a document from a higher organization granting your local or regional group permission to operate under their name. It probably carries some responsibilities and, as such, those rules become superior rules that may not be violated by your organization.

Any main motion that has been adopted that conflicts with the bylaws (or constitution) of the organization or assembly is null and void. [page 244].

-Bob

[Josh Martin]

If a private club has a charter, what does that mean? And what are the advantages?

Typically a charter is a document from a higher organization granting your local or regional group permission to operate under their name.

That is one possibility. The poster may also be referring to a "Corporate Charter," which is one name for the legal document incorporating the society under the laws of the state (or under federal law, for some types of organizations). According to RONR, "Incorporation is sometimes necessary or may be advisable, depending upon the differing laws of each state, if the organization is to hold property, inherit a legacy, make legally binding contracts, hire employees, be in a position to sue or be sued as a society, protect its officers and members from personal liability, or the like." (RONR, 10th ed., pg. 11, lines 3-9)

If this is the type of charter you're talking about, and the society is curious about the advantages of incorporation, it would be highly advisable to consult an attorney in order to receive advice specific to the laws of your state.