What is a Secondary Motion? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: Can a secondary motion be debated?

Yes, secondary motions can be debated, but only in relation to the main motion they address.

Q: How do I make a secondary motion?

To make a secondary motion, wait for a main motion to be on the floor, then clearly state your motion and its purpose.

Definition & Meaning

A secondary motion is a type of motion that can be introduced when a main motion is already under consideration in a meeting. Unlike main motions, secondary motions do not initiate new business; instead, they serve specific purposes related to the main motion. Examples of secondary motions include motions to amend, to refer, or to postpone the main motion. Understanding secondary motions is essential for effective participation in meetings and decision-making processes.

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Legal Use & context

Secondary motions are used primarily in parliamentary procedure, which governs the conduct of meetings in various organizations, including legislative bodies, boards, and committees. They are crucial in managing discussions and ensuring that all aspects of a main motion are thoroughly considered. Users can often find templates for drafting motions and other related documents through legal resources like US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: During a board meeting, a member proposes a main motion to allocate funds for a new project. Another member then makes a secondary motion to amend the funding amount before the main motion is voted on. This allows for discussion and modification of the initial proposal.

Example 2: In a legislative assembly, a representative introduces a main motion to pass a new law. A fellow representative then submits a secondary motion to refer the proposal to a committee for further review. This ensures that the law is examined in detail before a final vote is taken.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Main Motion	A proposal to take a specific action or express an opinion.	Main motions introduce new business, while secondary motions address existing business.
Incidental Motion	A motion that arises out of another motion and must be resolved before the main motion can proceed.	Incidental motions are a type of secondary motion but focus on procedural issues.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to make a secondary motion, ensure you understand the main motion being discussed. Prepare your secondary motion clearly and concisely to facilitate discussion. For assistance, consider using templates from US Legal Forms to draft your motion effectively. If the process seems complex, seeking guidance from a legal professional may be beneficial.

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Quick facts

Type: Procedural motion
Use: In meetings and legislative bodies
Purpose: To modify, delay, or refer a main motion

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of a secondary motion?

A secondary motion allows members to address specific aspects of a main motion without introducing new business.