MISTAKES MADE WITH THE BIDDING BOX

Any of us can select a bid from the bidding box, then realise that we did not mean to make that bid. The Bidding Box Regulations, (which are not included in the Law books), apply reasonableness to such a mishap.

What may one do?

Most importantly, apply Law 9B1(a) - "The Director must be summoned at once when attention is drawn to an irregularity." He should explain what can happen, and, most importantly, look at the errant bidder's hand to ensure that he/she has indeed made a mistake and does not have a change of mind about the bid.

Provided that the partner of the bidder has not bid, the bidder may change the bid so long as the incorrect bid was indicated as soon as it was realised. There is nothing in the regulations about letting go of the bid card, or being accepted by the next player's bid. If the bidder's partner has already bid in turn, no indication must be given that the bid was made in error, otherwise a claim for unauthorised information may be made by the non-offending side.

If the Director allows the erroneous bid to be changed, the next player in turn may withdraw and change any bid made. Only the non-offending side may lawfully use the information provided by this withdrawn call (Law 16C1).