The controversies which have recently rocked the professional chess world have all the markings of a dramatic scandal that could be covered on ESPN. The story involves a 19-year-old prodigy beating the world's best chess player, only to be credibly accused of cheating. While it remains to be seen what consequences, if any, both players may face, the Niemann-Carlsen controversy provides students and young people a good idea of what NOT to do if you are accused of cheating or other forms of academic dishonesty. If you are accused of cheating by your school or university, don't attempt to make excuses or talk your way out of it. Learn from the world of chess and retain experienced student defense attorney-advisor Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm to protect your interests.

The Niemann-Carlsen Chess Controversy

The Niemann-Carlsen Chess controversy involves Magnus Carlsen, the current five-time reigning World Chess Champion, and Hans Niemann, a young chess prodigy. The two faced off against each other three times, each time causing more controversy than the last.

Niemann's wins and Carlsen's refusal to play Niemann made shockwaves through the chess community worldwide, and rumors exploded online. Within hours of each event, there was mass speculation that Niemann had cheated.

When Defending Yourself Goes Wrong

While anyone beating Carlsen at a chess tournament would be noteworthy, Niemann has seemingly gone out of his way to stoke controversy. After the Sinquefield Cup when rumors of cheating began to swirl, Niemann made several questionable statements and gave several interviews in an attempt to clear his name. Most damagingly, he admitted that he had cheated at online chess twice when he was younger.

These statements caused an online uproar, resulting in Chess.com banning Niemann from its website and tournaments and announcing an investigation into his past games. Shortly thereafter, Chess.com and the Wall Street Journal released a 72-page report identifying over 100 online games with evidence of cheating and dozens of in-person games that warranted further investigation.

Niemann has continued to defend himself by making statements online, including offering to undergo a full-body scan or play chess naked. He has also filed a $100 million defamation lawsuit against Carlsen, Chess.com, and others.

The Dangers of Defending Yourself from Accusations

No matter what ends up happening in the Niemann-Carlsen Controversy, there is no doubt that Niemann made things worse for himself by trying to defend himself both in person and online. When people are in a defensive position, they are unable to comprehend how their arguments sound to others. This is especially true when people feel scared or guilty—they may attempt to deflect accusations by bringing up something else that is equally harmful, or could attempt to minimize the situation and unknowingly admit to actions that still have serious consequences.

Defending yourself is dangerous if you have been accused of cheating, academic misconduct, or other types of fraud. The smartest people in the world cannot accurately assess what is damaging and what is not when they are the ones under fire. By seeking the help of an experienced student defense advisor, you can better understand what types of statements are damaging and what type of information you should hold back. Premier academic defense attorney-advisor Joseph D. Lento will review your case and help you make concise, accurate statements that support your defense. Call 888.535.3686 to schedule an appointment with the Lento Law Firm today.