Is it true or false that common law requires auction contracts to be written?

In the context of common law, auction contracts do not necessarily have to be in writing. This is because common law does not impose a blanket requirement for all contracts to be written, especially for transactions like auctions that often occur publicly and can facilitate oral agreements. The acceptance and bid process in auctions typically allows for verbal contracts, as the auctioneer's call for bids is seen as an invitation for offers, and each bid constitutes an offer that creates a binding contract upon acceptance.

While specific regulations can vary based on jurisdiction and certain types of transactions may require written documentation (such as those involving real estate), the general principle under common law supports the validity of oral agreements in auction settings. Therefore, stating that it is false that common law requires auction contracts to be written aligns with the fundamental principles of contract law as it relates to auctions.