Judge Advocate (JA)
The Judge Advocate is a function and not a legal counsel position. Should the District judge Advocate not be an Attorney-at-Law, the District should designate an attorney as their Legal Advisor so qualified legal advice is available to the District Commander and to the District Executive Committee if needed. The Judge Advocate acts as the parliamentarian at District meetings and Convention. They may be replaced by a parliamentarian if needed.
The JA acts to make rulings only on request from the District Commander or whomever is chairing the meeting, or upon the request of a delegate, if approved by the chair.
The JA should be grounded in procedure and know Legion rules to meet the needs of the organization.
The JA should possess a copy of the District, Department and National Constitution and By-Laws of the American Legion and Robert’s Rule of Order, Revised.
The role of the JA is mostly passive. When needed, should be available and knowledgeable in the field of endeavor.