What happens if an author declines to participate?
You have the right to decline to participate in an Objection at any time. However, declining carries consequences.
Declining at the start: Default judgment is entered against you if you decline or fail to respond, and the Objector's case clears a minimum threshold of credibility and strength.
Declining during the evidence stage: Judgment is entered using only the Investigator's and Objector's evidence. You lose your opportunity to present a counter-narrative or dispute their submissions.
In either case, the public record will show that you were "notified but chose not to participate." This notation becomes part of the permanent record attached to the case.
Declining is your right. But it does not prevent evaluation—it simply removes your voice from the process.
What is a default judgment and what does it mean for me?
A default judgment is entered against you when:
1. You were properly notified of an Objection, and
2. You either declined to participate or failed to respond or submit evidence, and
3. The Objector's case cleared a threshold of credibility and strength in their favor
A default judgment against you will:
Harm your Honor Index — reducing your credibility score on the platform
Be recorded permanently — the public record will show you declined to defend your work
Potentially affect your standing with readers, editors, or professional contacts who consult Objection's records
A default judgment in your favor is also possible—if the Objector's evidence fails to meet the threshold even without your response.