The Chairperson (TAC) should be a person with a comprehensive knowledge of the game and its rules and regulations; appeals committee experience is a plus, a current or former member of the ACBL Appeals Committee is ideal. The TAC should know a large number of players at all levels of skill.
When a TD notifies the TAC that an appeal is likely, the TAC should get the names of appealing and non-appealing side. If unknown to the TAC, their relative levels and skills should be determined.
The TAC should solicit players for the committee. Knowledgeable lower-level players are perfectly acceptable in most cases, and certainly at least one peer of the participants is desired. Obviously, no friend, partner, or other potentially biased persons should be solicited. The TAC may sit on the committee if there is difficulty in finding enough volunteers to serve. If at all possible, the committee should be composed of players from a different event
The TAC should consult with the director to locate a suitable site for the appeals committee to meet, and arrange for the director to call for the committee or notify each committee member of the site.
It is the policy of District 22 to give each committee member a free play -- this should be done when the committee is held if possible. In addition, the TAC receives one free play for each committee organized.
It is best to have an odd number of committee members (usually three, but five are preferred if the case is likely to be controversial or hotly contested.) If sufficient members are available from other units/districts, that, too, is better. The TAC should appoint the committee Chair and see that they are experienced and/or have a copy of the Guidelines for Appeals Committees available. In cases where impartiality is questioned by either party to the appeal, the committee determines whether or not the person shall remain seated and serve.
If the appeal is likely to result in a disciplinary or ethical matter, the committee should definitely have an experienced chairman and should have five members.