[blml] Appeals Committees at ACBL NABCs

[Tim West-Meads]

Sven wrote:

> Let me quote Law 93B3 (sorry, I wrote L94 instead of L93 in my first
> comment):
> 
> In adjudicating appeals the Committee may exercise all powers 
> assigned by these Laws to the Director, except that the committee may
> not overrule the Director on a point of law or regulations, or on
> exercise of his disciplinary powers. The committee may recommend to
> the Director that he change his ruling.

I would have thought we were all aware of which law you meant.  The 
problem is that with no TD on the AC there is nobody to tell them that 
they may not overrule the TD on a particular point.  Having a TD 
"readily available" as Eric mentions only works if the AC decides to ask 
the TD for advice.  It doesn't help much if ACs produce illegal rulings.

Eric also said "TDs are no better than others at determining facts based 
on presented evidence."  While this might be true it should not be.  
Competent TDs should have considerable experience of table 
investigation/fact isolation (with requisite training as well) beyond 
that of normal players (albeit I recognise that some players will have 
day jobs that equip them with similar skills).    We should recognise 
that top TDs are as expert in their field (only part of which is bridge 
law) as players like Meckstroth are in the field of play.
It is the blend of such different types of expertise we should be 
seeking on ACs.

Tim