Wisconsin Academy of Trial Lawyers

“The association is organized as a non-stock, not for profit wisconsin corporation with membership open to all persons licensed to practice law in the united states of america, who are members in good standing of the licensing authority of their respective state, and whose practice consists, in whole or part, of litigation or trial practice.”

“The board of directors, officers, and regional officers are elected by the plurality of those present and voting at the annual convention. Only members in good standing are entitled to vote. (article ix, section 4 of bylaws)”

“Between annual conventions, the board of directors shall have full power and authority to do all acts and perform all functions which the association may do or perform at the annual convention, provided, however, that the board of directors shall not elect or appoint officers or amend the bylaws. Provided further that when the membership of the association at an annual convention or at a special general meeting shall have required or forbidden any act or policy, such action shall be binding on the board of directors. (article vi, section 2 of bylaws)”

“Before it was filed, a copy of the form 990 including required schedules was reviewed by the association's executive director and treasurer. These two individuals reviewed the form 990 by proofreading the information provided about the association, the answers to the questions and the supporting descriptions in schedule o, and the financial information presented.”

“The association annually sends a letter of explanation and the conflict-of-interest disclosure statement to each director, principal officer, and member of a committee with governing board-delegated powers. These individuals are expected to sign the statement and to inform the association president or board chair, as appropriate, of any conflict. The conflict of interest policy of the association describes the procedures for the governing board to follow to address any conflicts of interest and/or violations of the policy.”

“The association's process for determining compensation of the executive director includes the following: review by the executive committee; approval by the executive committee; use of various factors to set salary, including the consumer price index; and contemporaneous documentation and recordkeeping.”

“The association does not make its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, or financial statements available to the general public. Such documents, however, are available upon request.”