The Questions and Answers below are for guidance only. Guernsey FA does not wish to influence your decision on how you wish to deal with your case. This page is designed to explain the options available to you.
Q What choices do I have when I receive the Referee’s report and a disciplinary charge?
A The choices are on FORM D1.3 PART 2.
Q What do they really mean?
A If you agree with the report entirely, you can tick Box A and accept the charge. Sometimes, such as for a simple sending off, the punishment and dates of any suspension are already shown. If it is a more complicated charge, the punishment will be decided by a Commission and notified to your club.
Q Suppose I accept I did wrong, but feel there was a reason for it?
A By ticking Box B, you are allowed to submit a letter of mitigation for consideration by a non-personal Commission before any punishment is considered.
Q What is a letter of mitigation?
A It is a letter that sets out the incident from your point of view. It should accept that the Referee acted correctly in Law, but it could point out that you consider the circumstances at the time of the incident gave rise to your actions. It may also point out that you have a good disciplinary record or that there were other extenuating circumstances prevailing.
Q Suppose I think the Referee was totally wrong?
A Then you have the choice of asking for a personal hearing by ticking Box C. Forward the Personal Hearing Fee together with the Administration Fee.
Q Is it a bad idea to tick Box C?
A No. But you must seriously consider that you are totally innocent and feel certain that you can prove your case, otherwise you risk losing the Personal Hearing Fee, currently £25.00 as decided by the FA.