ContContract Formation Flashcards
What is an offer?
An objective manifestation of a present intent to contract
How is an offer demonstrated?
- By a promise, undertaking, or a commitment;
- definite and certain terms; and
- communication to an offeree
What power does an offer create?
Power of acceptance in the offeree
What is an objective manifestation of intent?
the offer must give offeree a reasonable expectation that offeror is willing to enter into K;
Would a reasonable person believe the communication is an offer inviting acceptance?
What are required to satisfy “definite and certain terms required”?
Enough essential terms must be included to allow a court to enforce the K;
vague terms or terms of negotiation are not allowed;
What special definite terms does a real estate deal require?
- price
2. identification of land
What must an offer do to communicate to an offeree?
Offeree must know of the offer and have the power to accept it
Is an advertisement considered an offer?
Generally no unless highly specific as to quantity and clearly indicates who can accept.
Under the UCC, what must be certain or capable of being certain in the offer?
Quantity.
Also, no unreasonably disproportionate increase in quantity is allowed.
Are missing terms ok in the UCC offer?
Yes, if the parties intended to make a K and there is a reasonably certain basis for giving a remedy.
How may an offer be terminated?
An offer may be terminated by an act of a party or by an operation of law.
What are the three acts of parties that will terminate an offer?
- Revocation by the offeror
- rejection by the offeree
- lapse of time
What are the three operations of law that will terminate an offer?
- Death or insanity of either party
- destruction of proposed K’s subject matter
- supervening illegality
What is revocation of an offer?
An offeror may revoke her offer, which effectively terminates the offer and the offeree’s power of acceptance.
What are the two methods of revocation?
- unambiguous stmt by the offeror to the offeree
- offeree becomes aware of the offeror’s unambiguous conduct or statement indicating an unwillingness or inability to contract
When is revocation effective?
Upon receipt by the offeree.
At what point can an offer not be revoked?
After it’s been accepted.
When/what offers are irrevocable?
- option K
- UCC firm offers
- detrimental reliance by offeree
In a unilateral K, when does an offer become irrevocable?
Start of performance makes the offer irrevocable for a reasonable time to complete performance (note: start is beyond mere preparation).
What is the legal effect of a rejection by the offeree?
terminates the offer and the offeree’s power of acceptance