Verdict (Raven)
A Verdict is a formal written order issued by Adjudication on the most significant and serious matters within Raven. They not only allow exercising Raven’s powers as the enforcer of Reality Law, but also guide the general direction of Raven as a whole. Adjudicators are those trusted to create Verdicts based on their interpretation of Reality Law and other treaty laws, as well as their professional scientific and ethical opinions; therefore, Adjudicators have the highest degree of responsibility and accountability out of all Raven personnel, and a direct duty of care to all of humanity.
Verdicts are cryptographically signed documents, and are signed by the Key Vault Security Controller (KVSC) inside the Sigma Unit. Without a signature, verdicts are not binding. This ensures that only authentic verdicts may be acted on. Verdicts are classified based on the sensitivity of information contained within them; additionally, verdicts may also be sealed, which prevents all access outside Adjudication. The KVSC operates using a secret ballot system; votes are not known, even by other High Adjudicators.
Examples of verdicts include:
- Amending Reality Law itself.
- Appointing a new Adjudicator.
- Authorising the classification, declassification, or reclassification of documents.
- Granting or withdrawing funding for a project.
- Granting Sigma clearance (which is only possible with the approval of Adjudication).
- Making a decision on a clearance withdrawal or reality manipulation license withdrawal appeal.
- Authorising otherwise illegal, possibly covert actions such as murder or blackmail to be undertaken by i.e. the SIO when failing to act could lead to a calamity