Contracts Flashcards
What governs the sale of goods?
The UCC: UCC Art. 2 governs the sale of goods.
Applicable rules also apply to merchants.
What governs contracts other than the sale of goods?
The Common Law: Majority rules governing contracts other than the sale of goods.
How are mixed contracts determined?
By the more important part of the deal, except divided contracts where both UCC and common law rules may apply.
What is a unilateral contract?
An offer expressly required performance as a method for acceptance.
What characterizes divisible contracts?
Performance divided into 2+ parts under the contract; the number of parts due from each party is the same; performance between parties is equivalent.
What is an option contract?
An agreement to leave open in exchange for consideration.
How are advertisements generally treated in contract law?
Generally a preliminary proposal unless words are directed to an identifiable person.
What is a quasi-contract?
An equitable remedy when a contract results in unfairness, preventing unjust enrichment.
What are the three elements required for an enforceable contract?
- Mutual assent (offer + valid acceptance)
- Adequate consideration
- No defenses to formation that invalidate the contract.
What are the requirements for a valid offer?
- A manifestation of a present intent to contract
- Definite and certain terms
- Communicated to an identified offeree.
What is not required in a UCC sale of goods regarding the offer?
Price is not needed.
What is revocation in contract law?
An unambiguous statement by the offeror to the offeree or conduct indicating unwillingness to contract that the offeree is aware of.
What are the conditions under which an option contract cannot be revoked?
An option contract cannot be revoked.
What is a firm offer under UCC?
An offer that cannot be revoked for up to 3 months if it is a signed written promise to keep open and the party is a merchant.
What is detrimental reliance in contract law?
Cannot revoke if reasonably foreseeable detrimental reliance has occurred.
When does an offer become irrevocable?
Once performance has started.
What happens to an offer if it is rejected?
Counteroffers kill the original offer.
What is the mailbox rule?
Acceptance is effective when mailed; all else is effective when received.
What happens if a seller sends the wrong goods?
Unless with explanation, it is considered a counteroffer.
What is required for consideration in a contract?
A bargained-for exchange of legal detriment between parties.
What is past consideration in contract law?
Not adequate consideration, except when expressly requested performance/forbearance and expectation of payment.
What is an illusory promise?
An unenforceable promise because it is indefinite, only one side is obligated to perform, and it lacks adequate consideration.
What can substitute for consideration?
- Written promise when prior obligation had applicable legal defense
- Promissory estoppel.
Under what conditions is a promise not to sue adequate consideration?
If the promisor’s belief in the validity of the claim is reasonable or in good faith.