The Parliamentarian is a consultant, commonly a professional, who advises the president and other officers, committees, and members on matters of parliamentary procedure. The parliamentarian’s role during a meeting is purely an advisory and consultative one–since parliamentary law gives to the chair alone the power to rule on questions of order or to answer parliamentary inquiries.
–Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised
A parliamentarian credentialed by either the National Association of Parliamentarians or the American Institute of Parliamentarians has completed extensive study, training, and experience in parliamentary procedure and maintains continuing education and experience standards. Referrals to professional parliamentarians can be obtained from either organization.