This article explains the legislative body in the Original Series. For information on its Re-imagined Series counterpart, see Quorum of Twelve. For more on the Re-imagined Series' expanded political realm and its Quorum's place in the hierarchy, see Government.
The Quorum of Twelve, also known as "The Council of Twelve" or "The Council", is a group of politicians who gather together to make up the laws and practices for the people of The Twelve Colonies.
The seats are made up of one representative from each colony and are presided over by the President. Each representative as well as the President are elected to their positions.
After the destruction of the Twelve Colonies and the death of President Adar, Commander Adama, of the planet Caprica, is installed as interim leader of The Council, operating under martial law. The council can still make laws and practices but Adama controls the overall actions of the Council.
The council does try to take control again when The Eastern Alliance prisoners are taken into custody aboard Galactica. But when the Alliance prisoners, along with Baltar and three Borellian Nomen try to escape and use the council as prisoners, the council gives control back to Adama (Baltar's Escape).