Code of Conduct

Introduction

The Lorcana Judge Program is built upon core values of service, integrity, community, respect, and trustworthiness. These values guide us in creating inclusive environments and upholding fairness at events worldwide.

As judges, we serve as stewards of these values, dedicating our time to ensure the smooth operation of tournaments, deliver accurate rulings, and address community concerns. Whether assisting players at local stores, officiating at competitive events, or engaging online when identified as a Lorcana Judge, our goal remains consistent: to foster enjoyable and fair tournament experiences for all.

This Code of Conduct outlines our responsibilities, defines acceptable conduct, and delineates the process for addressing misconduct. The Program focuses primarily on conduct when performing the role of a judge (online or in-person) and when representing the Lorcana Judge Program.

Our Core Values in Action

Service

We dedicate our time and energy to support the community, putting the needs of players and the integrity of the game before our personal interests.

Integrity

We demonstrate honesty and consistency in our actions, making fair decisions based on rules and policies rather than personal biases or relationships.

Community

We actively build and nurture a welcoming environment where all members can learn, grow, and enjoy the game together.

Respect

We treat all community members with dignity, regardless of their background, identity, or experience level.

Trustworthiness

We maintain confidentiality when appropriate, follow through on commitments, and work to be worthy of the trust placed in us by the community.

Principles of Judge Conduct

Fair Use of Authority

Lorcana Judges are expected to use their status and authority impartially and in accordance with tournament guidelines. Fair treatment of all members, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or other personal characteristics is paramount. Bias based on reputation or personal relationships is unacceptable.

Example: A judge should not penalize a player due to a personal disagreement or show favoritism toward friends during rulings.

Avoidance of Personal Gain

Lorcana Judges should serve the game community without seeking undue personal benefit. This includes refraining from using judge status for fraudulent purposes or unfair personal advantage.

Example: A judge should not use their position to gain trust and then commit fraud or theft, or use their position to get a favorable card trade from a player.

Creation of Inclusive Environments

Lorcana Judges share the responsibility to maintain welcoming tournament environments free from harassment or discrimination. They should actively promote positivity and intervene when necessary to prevent disruptive behavior.

Example: A judge should not make derogatory remarks or engage in behavior that makes others feel unwelcome or unsafe, or turn a blind eye to such acts happening in a tournament they're judging.

Accountability and Transparency

Lorcana Judges must take responsibility for their actions and conduct. They should not hinder reporting of misconduct or retaliate against individuals who report such behavior. Honest communication and acknowledgment of mistakes are essential.

Example: A judge should not impede the disclosure of inappropriate behavior or seek revenge against those who report misconduct.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

Our Commitment

The Lorcana Judge Program champions diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of its operations. We recognize that our community is stronger when it respects and embraces diversity in all its forms.

As a Lorcana Judge, you commit to:

Consistently foster an environment that encourages engagement and participation from all
Avoid and actively challenge behavior that is demeaning, threatening, bullying, or harassing
Stand against discrimination in our events and associated activities

Discrimination can occur on various grounds, including but not limited to:

Age
Disability
Family and parental status
Gender identity
Health status
Political affiliation
Race, color, ethnicity, nationality, language, or citizenship
Religion
Sexual orientation
Veteran status

We approach diversity and inclusion with grace, patience, thoughtfulness, open-mindedness, and steadfast resolve.

Types of Misconduct

Violation of Event Integrity

Any deliberate action that compromises the integrity of an event, such as manipulating pairings or providing unfair advantages to friends.

Example: Intentionally changing pairings to ensure friends do not face each other until the final round.

Misrepresenting Judge Status

Falsely claiming or misrepresenting one's certification level as a Lorcana Judge for personal gain or avoiding penalties.

Example: Exaggerating certification level to impress tournament organizers.

Significant Diplomacy Failure

Instances where a judge fails to exhibit appropriate diplomacy, resulting in escalated conflicts or strained relationships.

Example: Engaging in public altercations with players regarding a ruling given in a tournament.

Harassment

Systematic and unwanted actions, including threats or intimidation, directed towards an individual or group.

Example: Repeatedly making unwelcome comments or advances toward another person while acting as a judge.

Abuse of Trust

Violating trust or exploiting program roles for personal gain, such as accessing sensitive information or misusing resources.

Example: Revealing confidential information a judge has due to their role in the Lorcana Judge Program.

Assault

Any action or threat of bodily harm towards another person, regardless of the context.

Example: Physically harming someone or their belongings or engaging in physical altercations at events.

Bribery and Wagering

Betting on tournament outcomes, as well as soliciting or accepting bribes, or choosing not to enforce the rules around bribes.

Example: Requesting or accepting a bribe to overlook a rules violation.

Theft

Appropriating something that does not belong to you or violating the property rights of judges, stores, players, or organizers.

Example: Taking product from the store they judge at without receiving permission from the store manager.

Consequences of Misconduct

When a judge is accused of misconduct, the Program Committee will evaluate the situation and apply one of the following consequences based on the severity of the misconduct:

No Action

In cases where the review does not find evidence of misconduct.
Warning Letter

For minor infractions or first-time occurrences that don't severely impact others or the program's integrity.
Temporary Suspension

For medium to severe misconduct. The judge will temporarily lose their status and certification for a defined period of time.
Certification Level Reduction

Reducing a judge's certification level when the misconduct relates to responsibilities associated with their current level.
Expulsion

For severe misconduct. The judge will permanently lose their status and certification within the Lorcana Judge Program.

The severity of consequences will be determined based on:

The type and severity of the misconduct
Whether it's a first occurrence or a pattern of behavior
The level of intent (whether the action was unintentional, opportunistic, or premeditated)
The impact on others and the program

Reporting Misconduct

The Lorcana Judge Program is committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. If you witness or experience misconduct, we encourage you to report it through any of these channels:

Email: admin@lorcanajudge.fr
Discord: Contact a program administrator through the Lorcana Judge FR server
Website Form: Through the feedback form on the Lorcana Judge website

All reports will be handled with confidentiality and respect. We prohibit retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, reports misconduct or participates in an investigation.

📝 Report Misconduct

Official Disney Lorcana Policies

As a Lorcana Judge, you agree to acknowledge, integrate, and apply all official policies established by Ravensburger and Disney for the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game.

In cases where the Lorcana Judge Program's internal policies might conflict with official Ravensburger and Disney policies, the official policies shall take precedence.

Conclusion

This Code of Conduct serves as a cornerstone document outlining the expectations and standards for judges within the Lorcana Judge Program. By adhering to these principles and guidelines, judges commit to fostering a community characterized by fairness, inclusivity, and respect.

As guardians of integrity and excellence, judges play a vital role in upholding these fundamental principles, thereby enriching the judge community and enhancing the experience of all those involved in Lorcana events and tournaments.