Legal Definitions - roll call

Definition: Roll call is a process of taking attendance or a vote by calling out the names of individuals on a list. It can also refer to a demand for payment of money or a request for someone to come or assemble.

• In a classroom, the teacher may take roll call at the beginning of each class to ensure all students are present.
• In a legislative body, a roll call vote may be taken to record each member's vote on a particular issue.
• A securities broker may issue a margin call to a customer if the market prices of securities are falling, demanding that the customer put up more money or stock as collateral.
• A company may issue a call option, giving the holder the right to buy a certain amount of stock at a specified price before a certain date.

These examples illustrate how roll call can be used in different contexts, from taking attendance in a classroom to making financial demands in the stock market.