Conference requirement and procedure: Overview, definition, and example

What is a conference requirement and procedure?

A conference requirement and procedure refers to the established rules, guidelines, and steps that must be followed when holding or participating in a conference. This can include a range of activities, such as planning, scheduling, attending, and following up after a conference. The conference requirement defines the necessity or obligation for holding the conference, while the procedure outlines the steps participants or organizers need to take to ensure the conference runs smoothly. This can apply to business meetings, legal conferences, academic conferences, or industry-specific gatherings. The procedure can include guidelines on who must attend, how to submit documents or presentations, and any formal steps to ensure the meeting’s objectives are achieved.

Why is a conference requirement and procedure important?

A clear conference requirement and procedure are important because they establish order, consistency, and clarity for all participants involved in the conference. These guidelines ensure that the conference is productive, that all relevant issues are addressed, and that the goals of the conference are met. By outlining who is required to attend, what actions need to be taken beforehand, and what the expectations are during the meeting, these procedures help prevent confusion, minimize disruptions, and ensure that everyone involved knows their role and responsibilities. Additionally, a well-defined procedure helps ensure that the conference is efficient, stays on track, and meets the intended objectives.

Understanding conference requirement and procedure through an example

Imagine a legal dispute that requires a mediation conference between the parties involved. The court or mediator might set specific conference requirements and procedures:

  1. Conference Requirement: All parties involved in the case (plaintiffs, defendants, and their attorneys) must attend the mediation session in person or via videoconference.
  2. Conference Procedure:
    • Step 1: Parties must submit relevant documentation (such as evidence, briefs, or proposals) to the mediator at least three days before the scheduled conference.
    • Step 2: The mediator will introduce the parties and outline the ground rules for the session, such as maintaining confidentiality and focusing on collaborative resolution.
    • Step 3: Each party presents their position and concerns, after which the mediator facilitates discussion and negotiation.
    • Step 4: After reaching an agreement or outlining the unresolved issues, the mediator may schedule follow-up meetings or determine further steps.

This procedure ensures that all parties are prepared, understand the format of the conference, and know the process for reaching a resolution.

Example of a conference requirement and procedure clause

Here’s how a conference requirement and procedure clause might appear in an agreement or legal document:

“The Parties agree to attend a mediation conference scheduled for [Date], where both sides will present their positions. The Parties must submit any relevant documents, including evidence and legal briefs, to the mediator at least five business days before the conference. During the conference, the Parties will engage in good-faith negotiations, and the mediator will guide the discussions to explore potential resolutions. Failure to attend the conference without prior notice may result in sanctions or penalties, as determined by the mediator or court.”

Conclusion

A conference requirement and procedure help ensure that conferences are well-organized, efficient, and focused on achieving the desired outcomes. By establishing clear expectations for participants, defining necessary actions before and during the conference, and setting procedures for participation, both organizers and participants can contribute to a more productive and goal-oriented event. Whether for legal, business, academic, or industry-specific purposes, following a clear conference requirement and procedure ensures that the conference runs smoothly and effectively addresses the matters at hand.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.