General Authority

Generally, the board of directors may deal with disruptive behavior under authority of the governing documents of the association. Many associations are required to conduct meetings according to parliamentary procedures set forth in the association's bylaws and rules. If your association does not have such requirements, it may be a good idea to adopt a procedure for conducting meetings in order to cut short disruptive and obnoxious behavior. Some associations use Roberts Rules of Order as a source for maintaining order; however, even if using Roberts, it is essential that you use such a source in conjunction with, and not contrary to, your governing documents and the applicable statutes. If your governing documents do not have provisions against disruptive and harassing behavior, your association should amend its documents to include them. The association should also ensure that its governing documents contain procedures for reprimand, fines, suspension and even expulsion of unruly members during meetings.

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