World Chess Federation FIDE Arbiters' Commission
To this point, we have emphasized communication, and mutual responsibilities for effective communication. However, when the committee actually heard this appeal, there was really only one possible result, and that was to turn it down. This decision was based on the principle dating back to
Roman law, recognized practically universally via: ignorantia juris non excusat ….. which means:
“Ignorance of the law is no excuse”
Regardless, in order to avoid communication problems with players:
The Arbiters of a Tournament must always strive for effective communication.
Before the start of the first round, there must be a clear announcement about the time
control and the default time, using official terms from the FIDE Laws of Chess.
The same written announcement must be placed on the announcement board of the
tournament, outside the playing hall, and on the website of the tournament (if any).
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