Expansion Manual

Legal Issues

CHAPTER OFFICERS AND ADVISORS SHOULD REVIEW THE
FOLLOWING CHECKLIST OF ACTIVITIES TROUBLE:

1. Financial records: Are they being kept in a way that will withstand an audit by the Internal Revenue Service?

2. Financial transactions: Are they being handled in such a way so that two people are needed for every disbursement? A two-signature transaction ensures that the temptation for embezzlement is reduced, as is the opportunity for the accusation of embezzlement.

3. Recruitment: How are members describing the chapter when speaking with prospects? They must not convey the impression that the chapter affords the opportunity for organized illegal recreational use of alcohol or other drugs (thereby planing the seeds of trouble for the next four years).

4. Hazing: What plans has the fraternity made to avoid the temptation to engage in hazing?

5. Alcohol: Is there a standard operating procedure to help members stay out of trouble at events where alcohol is served? This should include guidelines to be followed at fraternity or university sponsored events and tips on appropriate actions when members are guests at other events.

6. Transportation: What kinds of planning has the fraternity made for events where chapter transportation is necessary?

7. Fire safety: When was the last time the fraternity house was checked for fire safety? Is there an evacuation plan in the event of fire? Is it posted in a conspicuous place so that everyone knows his best escape route? Does the evacuation plan include a rendezvous point so that someone will not reenter the building looking for another who has already safely left the building?

8. Crisis management: In the event of a personal tragedy in the chapter, is there an emergency preparedness plan that indicates who is in charge, who is to be notified, and how to deal with family, law enforcement officials, and the news media?

9. Insurance: Have the insurance premiums been paid on time to the international fraternity?

10. Agreements and contracts: Is there a proper contract between the chapter and housemother? Chapter and cook? Does the fraternity have proper rental agreements with members who live in the house? Is there a proper agreement between the House Corporation and the chapter?

If you have difficulty answering any of the above questions, contact the International Fraternity Office for more information.