Also known as: divisions of the assembly · division vote · division
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
A method of voting used in a deliberative assembly by which members stand or otherwise visibly indicate their positions so that the votes may be counted.
Delilah Duran called for a division of the assembly during the ethics committee meeting when the group considered whether to endorse the rule requiring fee divisions to reflect services performed. Members stood to be counted, producing a clear tally that approved the proposal. The result bound the association's recommendation to the state bar.
Demetrius Douglas moved to adopt a statement supporting apportioned liability when harms are divisible. The chair ordered a division of the assembly. Members rose or remained seated, and the count confirmed support for the position that each tortfeasor answers only for the harm caused.
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Diana Delgado proposed that the bar section endorse filing removal notices in the proper district and division. A division of the assembly was demanded. The standing count showed majority approval, so the section forwarded the resolution to the legislature.
Denise Donovan asked the probate section to endorse treating lifetime gifts as advancements only when a contemporaneous writing so indicates. The chair conducted a division of the assembly. The counted vote passed the endorsement by a wide margin.
Diego Duarte moved that the business law section support shareholder agreements governing division of voting power. After debate the chair ordered a division of the assembly. The visible count confirmed the motion carried.
David Dawson proposed that the family law section endorse revocation of spousal bequests upon divorce unless a contract provides otherwise. A division of the assembly produced a decisive count in favor of the proposal.
A division produces an accurate count when the result of a voice vote is uncertain or when a member doubts the announced outcome.
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A voice vote relies on audible response while a division requires members to stand or otherwise visibly register their positions so votes can be counted.
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Any member who doubts the result of a voice vote or who believes a counted vote is necessary may demand the division.
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No. Division of the assembly is a counted vote. Division of the question separates a motion into separate parts for separate consideration.
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…from its Board of Trustees, a reference committee noted "polarization of the medical profession on this controversial issue"; division among those who had testified; a difference of opinion among AMA councils and committees; "the remarkable shift in testimony" in six months, felt to be influenced "by the rapid changes in…