A: Unless your bylaws state otherwise, the committee's role is to confidentially investigate whether charges should be prefered. The committee has no power to require testimony or evidence, but quietly and informally investigates the accusations. When done, the committee reports to the assembly, either exhonorating the accused or preferring charges.

The trial is held by the organization in executive session; i.e., no non-members may be present except during the time they testify. The presiding officer should remind everyone present of the confidentiality required. (See RONR Chapter XX.)

If your bylaws allow the trial to be conducted by a committee, the committee may open its procedings to the membership (a hearing), but during deliberations by the committee only committee members may be present. (RONR p. 491.)