Constitution and By-Laws

NALSA Student organization logo

 

This document shall serve as the governing Constitution and Bylaws of the Native American Law Students Association (UNMSOL). This document is binding upon the organization and its members, and may not be overridden except by amendment as outlined in Article VIII. This document shall be made available to NALSA members and the general public on the website and upon request.

PREAMBLE

We, the members of NALSA at UNMSOL, establish this document to guide the organization’s governance and to support the development of the Native American legal community. NALSA exists to advocate for Native Law Students, Native Master of Studies in Law Students, and their allies; to promote professionalism and leadership; and to strengthen commitment to Native communities and Indian Country.

MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of the UNMSOL NALSA shall be to:

  1. Advocate for the professional, academic, and cultural needs and goals of Native Law Students, Native Master of Studies in Law (MSL), and their allies;
  2. Foster professional development and leadership within the Native legal community;
  3. Instill in every attorney, Law Student, and Masters Student a greater awareness and commitment to the needs of Native communities and Indian Country;
  4. Encourage the pursuit of careers in law, including the judiciary; and
  5. Engage in activities consistent with these

This organization does not limit itself to this sole objective. We reserve the right to grow and pursue other objectives as they arise from the community’s needs and best interests.

ARTICLE I- NAME

This organization shall be known as the University of New Mexico School of Law Native American Law Students Association, hereinafter referred to as “NALSA”.

ARTICLE II- AFFILIATION

NALSA is a member chapter of the National Native American Law Students Association (NNALSA).

ARTICLE III- MEMBERSHIP

Section 1: Eligibility for Membership

All Law Students and MSL students currently enrolled at UNMSOL shall be eligible to apply for annual chapter membership.

Section 2: Classification of Membership

Membership shall consist of students who have satisfied dues requirements and are recognized as members in good standing. Membership becomes effective upon payment of dues or approval of a dues waiver, subject to any deadlines set by the Executive Board.

Section 3: Duties of Membership

Membership Expectation:

  1. Members must maintain good standing to retain the rights and privileges of membership. Good standing requires payment of dues (or an approved waiver) and participation consistent with expectations established by the Executive
  2. NALSA members are expected to vote in general elections and are encouraged to communicate freely and openly with the NALSA Board and their fellow members about NALSA business and
  3. Continuous commitment to developing the Native legal community is incumbent upon each member.
  4. Members are expected to practice civility and camaraderie with each other, members of the Native community, and UNMSOL faculty and administration. Those found in violation of this standard must report their actions to the Executive Committee and may be placed on membership probation, at the Board’s discretion.
  5. It is the duty of members to inform the Executive Board if they are not in good standing or if they are aware of other members not in good standing exercising rights exclusive to members in good standing.

Section 4: Membership Standing

Good Standing –

A member is in good standing when they:

  1. Have paid their required dues or received an approved waiver; and
  2. Demonstrate participation in NALSA consistent with expectations established by the Executive Board.

Section 5: Rights of Membership

Only members in good standing shall be entitled to the full rights and privileges of membership, including voting, holding office, nominating candidates, and serving on special committees.

Section 6: Residual Rights

All powers not delegated by this document shall be reserved to the chapter membership and carried out by the Board.

Section 7: Membership Dues

Membership dues support NALSA’s activities, events, and programs consistent with its mission.

Amount:

The amount of annual membership dues shall be determined by the Executive Board and published to the membership each academic year.

Due Date:

The Executive Board shall establish and publish any dues deadlines each academic year. Failure to meet established deadlines may affect a member’s eligibility for certain privileges, including voting and participation in programs or events, as determined by the Executive Board.

Payment Process:

Dues shall be paid through the designated UNM payment system unless otherwise approved by the Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be responsible for maintaining accurate records of all dues collected.

Refunds:

Membership dues are non-refundable.

Financial Hardship Considerations:

NALSA is committed to ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent any student from participating. A potential member may request a waiver or modification of dues based on financial hardship or extenuating circumstances. Requests shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Board and reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Approval of any waiver or modification shall be at the discretion of the Executive Board.

ARTICLE IV: OFFICERS

Section 1: Eligibility of Officers

Persons eligible to hold office in NALSA must be active members, in good standing with NALSA, and in good academic standing pursuant to the guidelines of UNMSOL. Officers are responsible for maintaining eligibility and shall notify the Executive Board if they no longer meet these requirements.

Section 2: Classification of Officers

The NALSA officers shall be the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, First-Year Representative(s), New Mexico State Bar Indian Law Section (ILS) Liaison, and Public Relations Representative.

Section 3: The Board

The Executive Board shall consist of all elected officers. The Executive Board may create additional positions, as necessary. All standing positions shall be elected by the General Membership. Appointed positions may participate in Executive Board meetings but shall not have voting rights unless expressly authorized by the Executive Board. Appointed positions shall expire at the end of the academic year unless incorporated into these Bylaws.

Section 4: Term of Office

General:

The term of office for each Officer shall be one academic year. If an officer is removed or resigns, their replacement shall serve until the end of the removed officer’s term.

Vacancies:

If vacancies arise in an elected officer position, an election will be held at the next General Membership meeting. If circumstances demand more urgency, the nomination and election process may be held electronically using a method accessible to all members. The process will follow the same rules and procedures as annual elections.

All other vacancies may be filled by appointment of the Executive Board.

Section 5: Duties of the Executive Board & Individual Officers

The Executive Board shall be responsible for the management, direction, and administration of NALSA.

  1. Executive Board: The Executive Board Shall
    1. Represent NALSA to UNMSOL, UNM, and external organizations and communities;
    2. Ensure compliance with applicable university policies and laws;
    3. Establish standing or ad hoc committees and delegate authority to such committees as necessary;
      1. Decisions made by committees within their delegated authority shall be recognized as decisions of NALSA;
    4. Approve the annual budget;
    5. Schedule and provide notice of membership meetings;
      1. No less than two (2) meetings will be held each spring and fall semester;
      2. Notice of each membership meeting shall be announced to all members, prospective members, and interested parties at least seven (7) days in advance;
    6. Call special meetings for the membership, as necessary, with at least three(3) days' advance notice;
    7. Ensure transition and training of incoming officers;
    8. Have at least two (2) NALSA Executive Board members attend the annual UNM Student Organization Re-chartering session;
    9. Be responsible for creating, terminating, and the ultimate actions of all standing and ad hoc committees of NALSA;
    10. Appoint a member as liaison to LIPP for purposes of coordination and
  2. President: The President Shall
    1. Provide oversight of all NALSA activities;
    2. Represent NALSA as its primary spokesperson;
    3. Chair all meetings of the Executive Board and the chapter membership;
    4. Oversee committees established by the Executive Board;
    5. Serve as the primary contact with UNMSOL, UNM, outside organizations, and the greater community;
    6. Ensure coordination with the American Indian Law Center (AILC);
    7. Work in tandem with the Treasurer in overseeing financial activity and keeping expenditures within the annual budget;
    8. Coauthor the annual NNALSA chapter report;
    9. Share responsibility with the Vice President and Secretary for checking the NALSA mailbox;
    10. In the event that no other UNM NALSA member is elected to the NNALSA Executive Board, serve as its primary contact;
    11. Attend the annual chartership meeting at the beginning of each academic year and shall delegate one other officer to also be in attendance;
    12. Be responsible for renewing NALSA chartership as required by the UNM Student Activities Center (SAC) or Student Government Accounting Office (SGAO).
  3. Vice President: The Vice President Shall
    1. Assist the President, coordinate NALSA events, and assume the duties of the President in the event of absence, incapacity, or vacancy;
    2. Serve as the NALSA Executive Board ex officio member of all standing and ad hoc committees of NALSA, if no other Board member has been delegated to a committee.
  4. Secretary: The Secretary Shall
    1. Be responsible for maintaining records, including membership lists, meeting documents, governing documents, individual officer folders, and official correspondence of NALSA;
    2. Be responsible for taking minutes, drafting agendas, and share responsibility with the PR Representative for making the announcements for the Executive Board and the chapter meetings;
    3. Assist the President and other officers with any responsibilities as needed;
    4. Coauthor the annual NNALSA chapter report;
    5. Keep a history folder that shall include all published works, posters, member achievements, and the like;
    6. Assist the President and other Executive Board members with any responsibilities, as needed;
    7. Unless otherwise appointed by the Board, the Secretary shall serve as the liaison to LIPP for coordination and
  5. Treasurer: The Treasurer Shall

    Manage NALSA's finances, maintain accurate financial records, prepare periodic financial reports, and ensure compliance with applicable financial policies and procedures.

  6. First-Year Representative(s):

    The Executive Board may determine the number of First-Year Representatives. The First-Year Representative(s) shall serve as liaison to the first-year class, promote engagement, and assist with academic and organizational support initiatives.

  7. Public Relations Representative

    The Public Relations Representative shall manage communications, promote NALSA activities, and maintain NALSA’s public presence.

  8. Indian Law Section (ILS) Representative
    1. The ILS Representative shall coordinate between the ILS and NALSA.
    2. All officers shall perform such additional duties as may be assigned by the Executive Board.

Section 6: Committees

The Board may create standing or ad hoc committees by a majority vote. Each committee shall be chaired by a member of the Executive Board; Committee membership may include non-Board members and, where appropriate, non-members, as determined by the Executive Board. Committees shall operate under the authority delegated by the Executive Board, and their decisions within that authority shall be binding.

ARTICLE V: ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Section 1: Election Committee

  1. The Election Committee shall be composed of no less than two (2) graduating Executive Board members. If insufficient graduating Board members are available, the Executive Board may appoint qualified members to serve, or an impartial committee, as needed.
  2. The Election Committee shall administer the election process and provide the General Membership with all necessary procedures.

 

Section 2: Nominations

  1. Nomination by another member is strongly encouraged to reflect NALSA’s community values; however, self-nomination will be tolerated.
  2. Submission shall be a written notice of a nomination to the Election Committee during a nomination period, as determined by the Election
  3. Candidates for any Officer position must have fully read this document and be willing to perform all duties of their office before assuming
  4. Candidates may campaign through the NALSA listserv, at NALSA meetings, or otherwise within the nomination timeframe.

Section 3: Elections

  1. Elections shall be conducted by a vote of members in good
  2. Voting may occur in person or through an electronic medium, as determined by the Election Committee.

Article VI: Governance & Meetings

Section 1: Board Business

Meetings:

  1. Executive Board meetings will be conducted using Robert’s Rules of Order (RRO).
  2. All Board members shall have one (1) vote per person, notwithstanding any person holding multiple offices.
  3. Members must be present to vote; proxy voting will not be
  4. Voting on motions for Board actions shall be limited to elected members of the Executive Board-appointed positions may participate in discussions but may not vote or motion.
  5. The President shall preside as chairperson (“the Chair”) during official NALSA
  6. The Chair:
    1. Shall not vote, except when a tie-breaker is
    2. Shall:
      1. Call meetings to order and maintain order
      2. Recognize members to speak;
      3. Ensure adherence to procedure;
      4. Manage discussion and voting;
      5. Announce results of votes;
      6. Rule on procedural questions; and
      7. Adjourn meetings
  7. Motions shall be subject to debate prior to a vote, with the duration determined by the chair.
  8. Motions require a second before proceeding to debate and

Quorum:

  1. A quorum is necessary to conduct business and approve actions requiring the Executive Board’s attention.
    1. A quorum for Executive Board meetings shall consist of at least three-fifths (⅗) majority of the Executive Board.
  2. Actions shall be approved by a simple majority (51%) of those present at a meeting with quorum.

Electronic Polling:

  1. The Executive Board may approve actions electronically when necessary. Electronic voting shall not be used to bypass meaningful discussion where practicable. Actions approved via this method should be recorded and included in the subsequent official board meeting minutes.
  2. Electronic voting shall require participation sufficient to meet

Actions That Require Board Approval:

  1. Official NALSA statements and endorsements to be released to the general public, not including general press releases regarding NALSA events.
  2. Coalitions and other official collaborations that implicate the standing and/or image of NALSA.
  3. No individual member may represent NALSA in an official capacity or issue public statements on behalf of NALSA without authorization from the Executive

Article VII: General Body Voting Procedure

Section 1: Voting

  1. Qualification: The right to vote and call on any actions related to NALSA business is reserved for members in good standing. Non-members and members not found to be in good standing may be recognized by the chair to speak; however, voting and decision-making authority remain limited to members in good
  2. Quorum: A quorum shall consist of those members in good standing present at a properly noticed meeting.
  3. Votes: Actions shall be approved by a simple majority (51%) of members in good standing present at a meeting with quorum.
  4. When voting occurs during NALSA chapter meetings, matters to be voted on require a simple majority of the present quorum to pass.

Section 2: Discussion Period

On the date the vote is taken, there shall be a debate and discussion period, the length of which is to be determined by the presiding officer. Members may move to call the question to close debate and proceed to a vote at any time during this period.

ARTICLE VIII: RATIFICATION & AMENDMENTS

Section 1: Ratification

This document shall be adopted by a simple majority vote of members in good standing present at a meeting with quorum. Amendments shall be approved only through in-person voting; electronic voting shall not be permitted for changes to the Constitution and Bylaws.

Section 2: Amendments

  1. Notice: This Document may be amended by a simple-majority (51%) vote from a quorum of the general body in a General Membership or special meeting. Notice of a proposed amendment shall be provided at least three (3) days prior to the meeting, in a manner reasonably calculated to notify all active members.
  2. Discussion Period: Proposed amendments shall be subject to discussion prior to a vote. The presiding officer will determine the length of the debate and discussion period at the meeting for which the vote is called. Active members may move to close the discussion period and vote immediately at any time during this period.
  3. Effect: The amendments shall take effect immediately upon certification of a qualifying vote.

ARTICLE IX: IMPEACHMENT OF OFFICERS & EXPULSION OF MEMBERS

Section 1: Grounds for Impeachment & Expulsion

An elected officer may be impeached for failure to fulfill their duties or for grave misconduct. If an officer or member has been impeached, expelled, or has resigned from their position without good cause, they may be deemed ineligible for future office, as determined by the Executive Board. If a member chooses to resign from the membership, they must address the Board and submit a letter to the NALSA Secretary. The expulsion of individual NALSA members is reserved for grave misconduct, and the process mirrors that of officer impeachment.

Section 2: Initiation of Impeachment

  1. The Executive Board may initiate an impeachment proceeding by a simple majority vote of the Executive
  2. The General Membership may initiate an impeachment proceeding by circulating a petition stating the reasons for impeachment, attaining the signatures of one-fourth of the active membership, and submitting the petition to the Executive Board.

Section 3: Notice

The officer to be impeached shall be given written and verbal notice of impeachment and cause within a reasonable time before a specially convened meeting.

Section 4: Impeachment Procedure

  1. The Executive Board shall call a specially convened meeting for the chapter membership to hear the impeachment charge and defense.
  2. The highest elected official not involved in the impeachment proceeding shall chair the specially convened meeting.
  3. If the Executive Board initiates an impeachment proceeding, an Executive Board member voting to initiate it shall have the opportunity to present the case for impeachment at the specially convened meeting.
  4. If the active membership initiates an impeachment proceeding, a petitioner for the impeachment shall have an opportunity to present the case for impeachment at the specially convened meeting.
  5. Any officer/member being impeached shall have an opportunity to respond to the impeachment case at the specially convened meeting.
  6. A vote for removal shall be held if a quorum of the General Membership is present at the meeting. If a quorum is not present, the Executive Board may conduct an electronic vote limited to the impeachment proceeding with a deadline of no more than seven (7) days.
  7. The officer/member shall be removed if a simple majority of the votes favor

Article X: Grievance Policy & Procedures

Section 1: Purpose

The Native American Law Students Association (NALSA) is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and professional environment for all members. This policy establishes a fair and transparent process for addressing grievances, ensuring that concerns about violations of NALSA policies, misconduct, or disputes are resolved equitably.

Section 2: Grounds for a Grievance

A grievance may be filed for issues including, but not limited to:

  1. Violations of the NALSA Constitution and
  2. Harassment, discrimination, or any behavior that creates a hostile
  3. Violations of membership expectations, including conduct unbecoming of a NALSA member.
  4. Unfair treatment in the administration of NALSA policies or
  5. Abuse of power or misconduct by any Executive Board member.

Section 3: Filing a Grievance

  1. Submission: Any active NALSA member may file a grievance in writing, detailing the nature of the complaint, the parties involved, and any supporting
  2. Confidentiality: Grievances shall be handled confidentially to the fullest extent possible, except as necessary for a fair resolution.
  3. Deadline: A grievance must be submitted in writing to the Executive Board within thirty (30) days of the alleged incident or within a reasonable time upon discovery of the issue.
  4. Submission Process: Grievances shall be submitted to the NALSA Executive

Section 4: Review Process

  1. Initial Review: The Executive Board or designated grievance committee shall conduct an initial review within ten (10) days of receiving the grievance to determine if it merits further investigation.
  2. Investigation: If the grievance is deemed valid, the Board or grievance committee shall conduct an inquiry, which may include:
    1. Gathering additional information from the complainant and
    2. Interviewing relevant
    3. Reviewing any supporting documents or
  3. Response: The respondent shall be given an opportunity to provide a written response within seven (7) days of notification.
  4. Resolution: The Executive Board, or delegated grievance committee, shall determine an appropriate resolution, which may include:
    1. Dismissal of the grievance if found
    2. Mediation or facilitated
    3. Probationary measures or loss of certain
    4. Removal from NALSA in accordance with Article IX: Expulsion ofMembers, if necessary.

Section 5: Appeals

  1. Any party dissatisfied with the resolution may submit a written appeal within seven (7) days of the decision.
  2. Appeals shall be reviewed by the Faculty Advisor or an independent panel not involved in the initial decision, as designated by the Executive
  3. The decision on appeal shall be final.

Section 6: Retaliation Prohibited

NALSA strictly prohibits retaliation against any member for filing a grievance in good faith or participating in a grievance process. Any member found engaging in retaliatory conduct shall be subject to disciplinary action.

Article XI: Advisor

Section 1: Position of the Advisor

The advisor for NALSA shall be employed at least part-time as a UNMSOL faculty or staff member. An Advisor should be selected from the Indian Law faculty. Graduate assistants or student employees are not eligible to serve as Advisors. A change of advisory requires a majority vote of the Executive Board and the Advisor's acceptance.

Section 2: Advisor Duties

The Advisor shall act to assist NALSA appropriately in striving towards its mission and achieving its annual goals. The Advisor shall oversee the Board's activities and serve as the primary contact for dispute resolution. Other activities by the Advisor to support NALSA include, but are not limited to, hosting social events for the organization, providing information on employment opportunities in Indian Law and career development, and providing appropriate assistance upon request from NALSA. In addition, the Advisor shall comply with the Advisor Manual published by the APCA Commission for Student Involvement, a manual promoted by the UNM SAC.

Article XII: Miscellaneous

Section 1: NALSA Logo

  1. The NALSA Executive Board shall convene to discuss proposals to create or modify the NALSA logo.
  2. All active members shall have one (1) vote and be in attendance to vote or cast their vote using other voting methods (such as electronic polling), as determined by the Executive Board, on the new or modified NALSA logo.

Section 2: Blanketing Ceremony

Each Spring semester, NALSA shall hold its annual Blanketing Ceremony to honor graduating UNM NALSA members who have demonstrated a history and commitment to serving Indian Country. The Executive Board shall appoint a Blanket Ceremony Committee and delegate to it the authority to plan and administer the Ceremony. Decisions of the Committee within its delegated authority shall be final.

Criteria for participation as honoree:

  1. Every participating graduate who is honored must be a graduating, dues-paying member in good standing with the organization.
  2. Inclusion as an honoree in the ceremony is an honor extended by invitation, not an entitlement.
  3. Attendance at a mandatory informational meeting is required for participation. The committee will hold this meeting several weeks before the ceremony to ensure participants have a clear understanding of its significance and
    1. The informational meeting should include:
      1. Cultural, historical, and traditional context explaining the significance of the ceremony for Tribes and individuals;
      2. Ceremony procedures and expectations;
      3. Participant responsibilities;
      4. Standards of conduct and respect;
  4. In determining whether to extend an invitation to participate as an honoree, the Blanket Ceremony Committee may consider factors such as:
    1. Demonstrated engagement with NALSA,  including attendance, participation in events, or service to the organization;
    2. Engagement with SILC, LIPP, TLJ, AILC,;
    3. Contributions to Native community, advocacy, or Indian Country, whether within or outside the law school;
    4. Leadership, service, or support provided to NALSA or its members;
    5. Respect for and engagement with the cultural and community significance of the ceremony;
    6. Conduct consistent with the values and mission of NALSA;
    7. These factors are intended to guide the Committee’s discretion and do not create an entitlement to participation.

Section 3: Date of Ratification of Amendments

  1. The amended NALSA Constitution and Bylaws are certified by a majority vote of the quorum and rendered into effect on the following certification date:
    1. September 11, 2020
    2. September 16, 2020
    3. April 7, 2026