> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cantina.xyz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Escalation Procedures

> How to appeal judging decisions

**Appeal a judging decision with clarity and consequence.**

Once the initial judging phase is complete, researchers have the opportunity to appeal a decision they believe was misjudged—by initiating an escalation.

## Who Can Escalate

* Only the **original submitter** of a finding can initiate an escalation.
* Escalations must include **additional context or justification** for why the severity should be reconsidered.

## Penalty for Invalid Escalations

* Invalid escalations will result in a **\$100 penalty**, deducted from any future competition earnings.
* This system is in place to prevent unnecessary or speculative appeals.

## Judging Authority

* All escalations are reviewed by Cantina.
* **Cantina's decision is final**.

## Private Comments

* You can add **private comments** to any finding—visible only to judges.
* These are useful both during initial judging and if you escalate.
* If commenting on others' findings, stay professional: keep your notes **objective and specific**.