What must be established before pursuing a formal complaint against a member?

Before pursuing a formal complaint against a member, it is essential to establish probable cause by Association Counsel. This step ensures that there is sufficient evidence or reason to believe that a violation has occurred. Probable cause serves as a preliminary screening mechanism that protects the integrity of the complaint process, ensuring that only valid and substantiated allegations are formally considered. By requiring this threshold, the association can maintain its credibility and prevent frivolous or baseless complaints from overwhelming its governance procedures.

In contrast, a public vote or consensus from all members do not serve necessary functions in the initial assessment of a complaint; they could complicate or politicize the process instead of allowing a legal evaluation of the facts. A section meeting, while potentially a venue for discussion, does not inherently provide the legal basis needed to advance a grievance formally. Thus, the establishment of probable cause by Association Counsel is a critical first step in maintaining a fair and just complaint process.