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Duplicate contract bridge is a card game that involves teams of two players each, playing against each other. In this game, the same hand is dealt to all players, and each team plays the same contract. The goal is to score the most points, based on the number of tricks and the level of the contract.

But the game can be complex, and there are many rules that players need to follow in order to play effectively. Here are some of the important laws of duplicate contract bridge in 2017:

Law 1: The player who first designates a suit as trump is the declarer, and their partner is the dummy. The declarer has the responsibility of playing the hand, while the dummy’s cards are exposed and played by the declarer.

Law 2: The declarer must make a contract, which is an agreement to take a specific number of tricks with a specific suit as trump. The declarer must make at least six tricks, and the contract must be at or above the level agreed upon.

Law 3: The defenders are the opposing team, and they aim to prevent the declarer from making their contract. The defenders can earn points by taking tricks, or by stopping the declarer from making their contract.

Law 4: The lead is the first card played in a trick, and the player who wins the trick leads the next one. Players must follow suit if possible, and must play a trump card if they do not have a card of the suit led.

Law 5: The declarer can call for the dummy at any time, but must play all subsequent cards for the dummy. The declarer must also follow suit or play a trump card if they do not have a card of the suit led.

Law 6: If the declarer does not make their contract, the defenders earn points based on the number of tricks they took. If the declarer makes their contract, they earn points based on the level of the contract and the number of tricks taken.

Law 7: When the hand is complete, each team must record their score. The game is usually played over several hands, and the team with the highest score after all the hands are played is the winner.

By following these laws, players can ensure a fair and enjoyable game of duplicate contract bridge. So whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, remember these rules to help you play your best game.