What is a point of order under Robert's Rules of Order

Point of Order

Definition

A Point of Order is an incidental motion used by any member to call attention to a violation of the rules or an error in parliamentary procedure. It essentially asks the chair to make a ruling that proper procedure is being followed.

Key Characteristics

Feature	Rule
Requires a second?	No
Debatable?	No
Amendable?	No
Vote required?	None — chair rules on it
Interrupts speaker?	Yes, if timely

When to Use It

A Point of Order is appropriate when:

• A motion is not in order (e.g., not germane, improperly stated)
• Debate rules are being violated (e.g., a member exceeds time limits)
• A procedural error has occurred
• The chair makes a parliamentary mistake

How to Raise One

1. Member rises and interrupts if necessary, saying: "Point of order!"
2. The chair recognizes the member
3. Member states the point: "The member has exceeded their allotted debate time."
4. The chair rules — either "The point is well taken" or "The point is not well taken" — and explains the ruling

Important Notes

• Must be raised promptly when the violation occurs — you generally cannot raise a point of order about something that happened earlier in the meeting
• If a member disagrees with the chair's ruling, they may Appeal the decision (which does require a second and is decided by majority vote)