A Note for Our Members
While HAAR and ValleyMLS now have dedicated legal counsel to support the boards and the organizations as a whole, please remember that our attorneys do not provide individual legal advice to members.
For any personal or transactional legal questions, members should continue to use the Alabama Association of REALTORS® Legal Line at: https://www.alabamarealtors.com/login?return_url=/legal-line
This resource is designed specifically for REALTOR® members and remains the best way to get guidance on your day-to-day real estate legal questions.
 Welcoming Our New Legal Counsel
The Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS® (HAAR) and ValleyMLS.com are pleased to announce the appointment of two distinguished attorneys who will serve as dedicated legal counsels for our organizations. Their expertise will provide invaluable support as we continue to strengthen compliance, governance, and professional standards for our members.
Alan P. Judge – Legal Counsel for HAAR
Alan Judge, of Alabama Property & Estate Law, LLC, will serve as Legal Counsel to the Huntsville Area Association of REALTORS®.
In this role, Alan will:
Attend all HAAR Board Meetings
Advise HAAR on legal matters affecting the Association and its members.
Obtain and maintain the National Association of REALTORS® Professional Standards Administration Certificate of Completion.
Assist with Professional Standards hearings, including serving as counsel to the Grievance Committee and reviewing Ethics Hearing Panel decisions.
Provide educational opportunities to REALTORS®, including teaching classes at HAAR  (free of charge to members).
Alan’s appointment ensures that HAAR continues to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while providing timely, reliable legal counsel
Andrea Gullion – Legal Counsel for ValleyMLS.com
Andrea Gullion, of McBride, Richardson & Gullion, P.C., has been appointed as Legal Counsel for ValleyMLS.com.
In this capacity, Andrea will:
Provide guidance to ValleyMLS on legal issues related to operations, compliance, and governance.
Represent ValleyMLS in legal matters as needed and support leadership in meeting evolving industry and regulatory requirements.
Attend professional meetings and conferences on behalf of ValleyMLS to ensure our organization remains informed and aligned with best practices.
Andrea’s experience and counsel will play a key role in ensuring ValleyMLS remains a trusted and legally sound MLS partner for brokers and subscribers
The Role of Legal Counsel in Board Meetings
Advising on Procedure & Governance
Ensures the board is following its bylaws, policies, and Robert’s Rules of Order.
Helps the Chair and leadership avoid procedural missteps that could later invalidate a decision.
Provides clarity when motions, amendments, or votes are in a gray area.
Risk Management
Spots legal landmines in real time — for example, if a discussion veers into antitrust, fair housing, or confidentiality risks.
Advises against board actions that might expose the association/MLS or its directors to liability.
Interpreting Governing Documents & Law
Clarifies how bylaws, policies, MLS rules, or state law apply to the matter at hand.
Ensures new policies or board actions align with NAR mandates, license law, and corporate law requirements.
Supporting Professional Standards & Discipline
If a matter related to ethics, hearings, or grievance appeals is before the board, legal counsel provides guidance on due process and proper handling.
Documenting & Safeguarding Decisions
Reviews proposed motions, agreements, and contracts before approval.
Ensures the record (minutes, resolutions) is clear and defensible if challenged.