A white bonnet refers to a person who participates in an auction with the sole purpose of artificially inflating the price of an item. This individual, known as a sham bidder or puffer, does not intend to buy the item but instead collaborates with the seller to create the illusion of competition. By placing fictitious bids, white bonnets can mislead genuine bidders about the item's value.
The term "white bonnet" is primarily used in the context of auctions, particularly in civil law. It is relevant in discussions about auction fraud and unethical bidding practices. Understanding the role of white bonnets can help participants in auctions protect themselves from deceptive practices. Users may find it beneficial to consult legal templates or forms related to auction laws through resources like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(Hypothetical example) In an auction for a rare painting, the seller hires a white bonnet to place bids. As the auction progresses, the white bonnet raises the bid amount, leading other bidders to believe that the painting is more valuable than it actually is. This tactic may result in higher final bids from unsuspecting participants.
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Legal Stance on White Bonnets |
|---|---|
| California | Strict regulations against auction fraud, including the use of sham bidders. |
| New York | Prohibits deceptive practices at auctions, including white bonnet activities. |
| Texas | Has specific laws addressing auction integrity, including penalties for using white bonnets. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Sham bidder | A person who bids without intent to buy, similar to a white bonnet. |
| Puffer | Another term for a white bonnet, emphasizing the act of inflating bids. |
| By-bidder | A person who bids on behalf of the seller, often in a deceptive manner. |
If you suspect that a white bonnet is influencing an auction you are participating in, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
A white bonnet is a sham bidder who artificially raises auction prices by placing fictitious bids.