Player's Introduction to Penalties
From Judge Wiki
Player's Introduction to Penalties - 10 things you should know
This is a summary of some common tournament infractions and penalties. This document does not contain the full definitions and philosophies of the various penalties. If you have a question about penalties and procedures, please talk to a judge. The full documents are available at http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dci/doccenter/home.
The penalties below apply at Competitive Rules Enforcement Level (used at events such as PTQs and the first day of a GP). Tournaments at lower and higher levels may have different penalties.
Most penalties will be upgraded for repeated offenses. Many of these penalties are given for unintentional violations - intentional rules violations are Cheating, penalized with Disqualification. A verbal Caution from a tournament official is a penalty that can be upgraded. You do not need to be playing in order to receive a penalty.
If in doubt, ask a judge.
1. Deck/Decklist problems - Game Loss. Examples: too few cards registered, illegal cards in deck, failing to desideboard, having a card that belongs to a previous opponent in your deck.
2. Most unintentional game play errors - Warning. Examples: missing a triggered ability, underpaying mana, leaving a dead creature in play.
3. Not noticing your opponent make an illegal play - Warning. Both players are responsible for the game state. This penalty will not be upgraded for repeat offenses.
4. Not randomizing your deck sufficiently - Warning. Make sure you do not see the faces of the cards while you shuffle, and remember that a pile shuffle alone does not randomize the deck.
5. Marked cards or sleeves - Warning or Game Loss depending on the potential advantage gained from the markings.
6. Using notes or giving/requesting advice - Match Loss. Do not refer to notes made before the current match during games. Do not make comments on games that are in progress. If you see a rules violation, tell a judge.
7. Randomly determining the winner of a match - Disqualification. Rolling a die compromises the integrity of the event.
8. Offering or accepting anything as a bribe to another player or official - Disqualification. This includes prize splits in exchange for a concession or intentional draw.
9. Unsporting, disrespectful or aggressive conduct - Warning to Disqualification, depending on the situation.
10. Lying to a judge - Disqualification. Judges are here to help you. Please help us do that by telling the truth.
