Quorum Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Quorum, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Quorum?

(n) A quorum is the prefixed number of members to be present in a meeting of such members for legitimately transacting business for which such meetings were called, after following the rules set forth to convene such meeting. The bye-laws of all organizations or association fixes the quorum of the meeting of each body

History and Meaning of Quorum

The term "Quorum" originated from Latin, implying "of whom." In ancient times, it was utilized in Parliament in London to determine the number of members required to be present for a meeting to convene. Since then, it has been adopted by other organizations to define the number of members who have to be present to start a meeting officially. A quorum guarantees that there is a sufficient number of members present to conduct business and make decisions.

Examples of Quorum

  1. The Board of Directors determined that 60% of voting members needed to be physically present at a shareholders' conference to constitute a quorum.
  2. The committee decided that 75% of its members must be present via video conference to reach a quorum.
  3. The bylaws stated that a quorum for the club meeting was five members.

Legal Terms Similar to Quorum

  1. Unanimous consent – a procedure in which every member of the meeting agrees to a certain course of action.
  2. Proxy voting – a mechanism for members to vote by appointing another person to vote in their place.
  3. Simple majority – a vote getting more than half of the possible votes cast.