Statutes in some jurisdictions require that the constitution or articles of association, and the bylaws, be acknowledged or verified. In some jurisdictions, it is required by statute that the constitution or articles of association be recorded, particularly where the association or club owns real property or any interest in real property.
The Virginia Articles of Association of a Professional Association is a legal document that establishes and governs the operations, goals, and structure of a professional association in the state of Virginia. It is mandatory for any professional association seeking to operate in Virginia to draft and file Articles of Association with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). The purpose of the Articles of Association is to provide clear guidelines and regulations for the professional association's functioning and ensure compliance with state laws and regulations. The document covers various essential aspects, including the association's name, purpose, duration, membership requirements, governance structure, voting rights, meetings, committees, finances, dissolution, amendments, and other relevant provisions. In Virginia, there are different types of Articles of Association that can be filed based on the particular type of professional association: 1. Professional Corporation (PC): A Professional Corporation is formed by licensed professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, engineers, architects, accountants, etc. The Articles of Association for a Professional Corporation must comply with the Virginia Professional Corporation Act and outline the specific professional services the corporation will engage in and the licensed professionals it will employ. 2. Professional Limited Liability Company (LLC): A Professional Limited Liability Company is a type of organization where licensed professionals operate as members rather than shareholders. The Articles of Association for an LLC must adhere to the Virginia Professional Limited Liability Company Act and clearly state the nature of the professional services provided and the licensed professionals involved. 3. Professional Association (PA): A Professional Association is typically formed by professionals who are not required to be licensed by state regulatory bodies but still wish to unite for professional practices and purposes. The Articles of Association for a Professional Association must comply with the Virginia Professional Association Act and outline the association's objectives, membership requirements, governance structure, and operational procedures. 4. Cooperative Associations (CA): Cooperative Associations are formed by individuals or businesses with common economic and social interests. While not limited to professional fields, Cooperative Associations can include professionals seeking to collaborate for economic benefits or shared services. The Articles of Association for a Cooperative Association in Virginia should outline the cooperative's mission, membership criteria, voting structure, distribution of profits or savings, and other relevant provisions. It is crucial for professional associations in Virginia to consult with legal professionals or corporate services providers while drafting their Articles of Association to ensure compliance with the state's laws and accurately represent the association's purpose, structure, and goals.
