In formal meetings, who has the authority to determine if a member is out of order?

In formal meetings, the authority to determine if a member is out of order rests with the Chair. The Chair is responsible for maintaining order during the meeting and ensuring that the procedures are followed according to the established rules, such as Robert's Rules of Order or the organization's bylaws. This role is crucial as it allows the Chair to intervene if a member speaks out of turn, violates the rules of decorum, or strays from the agenda. The Chair's position enables them to make decisions about whether discussions are proceeding appropriately, thereby ensuring that the meeting functions smoothly and that all members can participate effectively.

The other participants in the meeting, such as the members, Secretary, or Treasurer, do not have the same authority to call someone out of order as it is the Chair’s responsibility to manage the proceedings and uphold the order of the meeting.