Legal Duties& resp., Agency, Contract Flashcards

(85 cards)

1
Q

Five Elements of “Actual Fraud” (mnemonic)

● A - Actual and justifiable reliance
by plaintiff

● S - Scienter (intent to deceive)

A

MAIDS
- Misrepresentation - This means that a false statement or a misleading omission
was made. knowingly or recklessly
- Actual and justifiable Reliance by Plaintiff - The reliance on the misrepresentation must be justifiable. This means that the deceived party had a reasonable basis for believing the misrepresentation.
- Intent to Induce plaintiffs
reliance - The deceived party must have relied on the false statement or misleading omission when making a decision.

  • Damages - The deceived party must have suffered some harm or loss as a result of their reliance on the misrepresentation.
  • Scienter (Intent to Deceive) -
    The party making the misrepresentation must have an
    intention to deceive the other party
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2
Q

Minority Rule : Some jurisdictions have expanded the scope of liability. Under the minority rule, a tax return preparer may
be liable to third parties who the preparer could foresee
would rely on the information. This means even if there’s no
direct contractual relationship, if the preparer should have
reasonably foreseen that a third party would rely on their
work and suffer harm due to negligence, the preparer could
be held liable.

A
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3
Q

Constructive Fraud:

A

Intent: Constructive fraud does not require an intent to
deceive. It typically arises from a breach of a legal or
equitable duty, which, irrespective of the breaching party’s
intent, the law expressly declares to be fraudulent because
of its tendency to deceive others, to violate public or private
confidence, or to injure public interests.

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4
Q
A

Example of Constructive Fraud: An agent responsible for
purchasing property for a client fails to disclose that they
also have a personal financial interest in the sale of that
property. Even if the agent believed the purchase was in the
client’s best interest and had no intent to deceive, the failure
to disclose the personal interest can constitute constructive
fraud because of the breach of duty.

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5
Q

What is an agent

A

A person given authority by the principal to act on their behalf to a 3rd party

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6
Q

name the types of agency relationships and their subs

A

A. Actual Authority - given d directly or implied by principal
1. Express Authority - principal tells agent explicitly
2. Implied Authority - good example is principal gives agent authority to sell a house, so the agent has implied authority to hire an appraisal
B. Apparent Authority - principal creates the appearance to 3rd party of agent having authority

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7
Q

Apparent Authority - This can happen even if the agent doesn’t have actual authority.
It’s based on the third party’s reasonable belief stemming from the principal’s representations (which can be by actions, words, or
through the customary roles of the agent in the industry).

A

the power an agent appears to have based on the principal’s actions, allowing a third party to reasonably believe the agent has authority to act on their behalf,

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8
Q

Agency By Estoppel

A

“agency by estoppel” is the legal concept where a principal is prevented from denying an agent’s authority due to their conduct that created the impression of agency in a third party’s mind,which is sometimes grouped under apparent authority or
treated similarly, is a legal doctrine that may come into play when an agent lacks actual authority. It occurs when the principal’s actions lead a third party to believe that the agent has the authority to act, even if the agent does not have such authority

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9
Q

Agency By Estoppel

A

In such cases, the principal is “estopped” (prevented) from
denying the agent’s authority if a third party has changed
their position based on a reasonable belief that the agent
was authorized.

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10
Q

How does Agency by estoppel work

A

Here’s how agency by estoppel works:
● Representation by the Principal: The principal must
have represented, through actions or neglect, that the
agent has the authority to act on their behalf.
● Third-Party Reliance: The third party must have relied on the principal’s representation, and that reliance must have been reasonable under the circumstances.
● Change of Position: The third party must have been induced to change their position as a result of the agent’s purported authority – for example, by entering into a contract or transaction.
● Detriment: The third party usually needs to demonstrate
that they would suffer a loss or detriment if the agent’s
acts are not binding upon the principal.

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11
Q

Ratification
Example with agency relationship:
An employee (agent) at a tech firm, without authority, signs a
contract with a supplier for computer parts. The CEO
(principal) later learns of the contract and decides to honor it.The CEO’s decision to ratify the unauthorized act creates an
agency relationship retroactively.

A

the person didnt have authority but after the principal finds out, they say its ok, they ratify the act

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12
Q

Inherent Authority
Example with agency relationship: A vice president (agent) of operations for a large corporation enters into a contract with a cleaning service for office maintenance, even though the Board of Directors did not grant this specific power. Given the vice president’s position,
it’s reasonable for the cleaning service to assume they have
the authority to make such decisions. This could be viewed
as inherent authority.

A

as per your position you should have authority naw. its reasonable for the 3rd party to believe u have authority

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13
Q

Agency by Estoppel
Example with agency relationship:
A principal who owns a store allows an individual (agent) to
manage all operations, including placing orders for goods,
for several years. One day, the principal secretly revokes the
manager’s authority but does not inform the suppliers. The
suppliers continue to fill orders based on the prior apparent
authority. The principal is estopped from denying the
manager’s authority because the suppliers relied on their
belief that the manager was still authorized, which the
principal had previously cultivated.

A
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14
Q

What are the duties of an agent

A
  • Duty of Loyalty - Agent must act in best interest of principal, cannot compete with principal, cant have dual agency without informing principal
  • Duty of Obedience
    -Duty of Care and skill
    -Duty to Inform
  • Duty of Accounting
    -Duty of good conduct
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15
Q

What are the liabilities of an agent

A
  • Contractual Liability: If an agent enters into a contract on
    behalf of a disclosed principal and within the scope of their
    authority, the principal is liable, not the agent. However, if the principal is partially disclosed or undisclosed, the agent may
    become liable on the contract.
  • Tort Liability: Agents are personally liable for their own
    torts, even if the acts were performed on behalf of a
    principal. If the agent’s tortious conduct was directed,
    authorized, or ratified by the principal, then the principal may
    also be liable
    -Liability for Breach of Duty:
    -Liability for Misrepresentation:
  • Liability for Negligence: I
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16
Q

Duties of Principals

indemnify - to compensate for harm/loss, reimburse for, repay for

A

Duty to compensate
Duty to reimburse
Duty to Indemnify: The principal must indemnify the agent
against losses incurred while carrying out authorized duties.
This could include legal liabilities or other losses that the
agent suffers as a result of acting on behalf of the principal.
Duty to cooperate
Duty to provide safe working conditions

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17
Q

Principal Liabilities

A
  • contractual liability- principals are bound by the contracts their agents get into as long as agent acted within scope of his/her authorit-
    -liability for agents torts
  • liability for failure to perform
  • Direct liability: principals can beheld liable for negligent/false info if agent does something based on false info given to the agent by the principal
    -liability for agent misrepresentation
    -liability for wrongful termination
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18
Q

What has to be included to be a contract

A

Offer
Acceptance
Consideration
Intention to create legal relations
Note: parties have to be legal. No minors or mentally incapacitated. Also it can’t be for illegal purpose or against public policy

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19
Q

State and explain the types of contracts

A

-Express contract: terms stated clearly in writing or orally, like purchase of a car.
- implied contracts: implied not written or orally stated.
-implied in fact- like if u visit a doctor it’s implied u will pay for the services
-implied in law contracts (quasi contract) : like if u receive goods u didn’t ask for but u used and didn’t return, the law can say u must pay coz contract is implied by keeping the goods
-Bilateral contracts- performance promise to do for performance promise to do. Most businesses and personal contracts.
-unilateral contracts: promise for another party’s performance, like $50 for finding lost dog

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20
Q

Diff btw executed and executory contract

A

Executed- contractual obligations done.
Executory - contractual obligations almost all done. Like signing a lease but haven’t moved in yet

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21
Q

Void vs voidable contract

A

Void contracts are not legal from the beginning, they lack the elements necessary to be a contract or they are illegal. Voidable contracts are valid but can be voided by one of the parties like a contract with a minor

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22
Q

In order to reach the stage of an executed contract, the parties involved must fulfill their performance obligations according to certain rules and principles:

A
  1. Performance According to Contract Terms Complete Performance
  2. Substantial Performance
    performance.
  3. Material Breach
  4. Time of Performance
    Time Is of the Essence: If the contract specifies that performance
    by a certain date is critical, then any delay may constitute a
    breach. If time is not of the essence, reasonable delays might be
    acceptable.
  5. Excuses for Non-Performance
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23
Q

Performance According to Contract Terms Complete Performance

A

Performance According to Contract Terms Complete Performance: The parties must perform exactly as
specified in the contract.

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24
Q

Substantial Performance:

A

If a party performs most of the contract terms but falls short in some minor way, this may still be considered substantial The other party is still obligated to perform (usually to pay), but may be entitled to
damages for the minor deviation.

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Material Breach
This occurs when one party fails to perform their contractual duties, and the breach is so significant that it undermines the entire contract. The non-breaching party is then excused from further performance and can sue for damages
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Time of Performance
Time Is of the Essence: If the contract specifies that performance by a certain date is critical, then any delay may constitute a breach. If time is not of the essence, reasonable delays might be acceptable.
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5. Excuses for Non-Performance
There are several situations where non-performance is excused: ● Impossibility: Performance is impossible due to factors beyond the parties' control (e.g., natural disaster). ● Impracticability: Performance is unfeasibly difficult or expensive in ways not foreseen by the parties. ● Frustration of Purpose: An unforeseen event undermines the contract's purpose, through no fault of either party. ● Mutual Rescission: Both parties agree not to perform and to cancel the contract. ● Alteration of the Contract: If one party unilaterally changes the terms of the contract without consent, the other party may be excused from performance.
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6. Performance by a Third Party Generally, unless the contract specifies that the obligation is personal in nature (due to the particular skills of the obligor), a third party may perform the contractual obligations.
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7. Order and Timing of Performance If a contract involves the exchange of performances (like a service for payment), the party that is required to perform first must do so before the other party's performance is due. If the contract doesn't specify, then concurrent performance is often assumed.
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8. Satisfaction Clauses In some contracts, performance is contingent upon one party’s satisfaction with the other's performance. This can be subjective (personal satisfaction) or objective (meeting a professional standard).
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9. Tender of Performance The offering of performance (tender) is important. If one party makes a proper tender of performance and the other party refuses, the refusing party may be in breach of contract
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Remedies for Breach If one party fails to perform, the other party generally has the right to seek legal remedies, such as:
● Damages: Compensation for the breach. ● Specific Performance: A court order requiring the breaching party to fulfill their contractual obligations. Rescission: The contract is canceled, and both parties are returned to their pre-contractual positions.
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A contract can be discharged or terminated in several ways, which releases the parties from their obligations. the primary methods of contract discharge are?
1. Discharge by Performance The most straightforward way, both parties fulfill their obligations as per the terms of theagreement. This is known as complete performance or actual performance. There are two forms: ● Complete Performance: Every aspect of the contract's terms has been met to the satisfaction of all parties involved. ● Substantial Performance: When performance slightly deviates from the contract but still delivers the core benefits, 2. Discharge by Agreement Sometimes, the parties involved may agree to discharge the contract before the full performance is completed. ● Mutual Rescission: The parties mutually agree to cancel the contract. Novation: A new contract is created, possibly including a new party, which replaces and discharges the obligations of the original contract. ● Accord and Satisfaction: The parties agree (accord) to accept a different performance than initially contracted and the new obligation is performed (satisfaction). ● Substitution: A new contract with different terms replaces the old one. 3. Discharge by Operation of Law 4. Discharge by Breach 5. Discharge by Lapse of Time 6. Discharge by Conditional Contract Sometimes a contract is entered into on a conditional basis. If the condition is not met, the contract may be discharged: ● Condition Precedent: The contract stipulates that unless a certain event occurs, the contract does not need to be performed. ● Condition Subsequent: The contract is discharged if a specific event occurs after the contract is executed.
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3. Discharge by Operation of Law
In some cases, a contract is discharged due to certain legal principles or events without the parties' direct intention: ● Impossibility of Performance: An unforeseen event not caused by either party makes performance impossible ● Frustration of Purpose: Occurs when an unforeseen event undermines the fundamental reason for entering into the contract. ● Illegality: If the contract becomes illegal due to new laws or regulations, it is discharged. ● Insolvency: If a party becomes insolvent, this may discharge the contract as they are legally incapable of fulfilling the payment obligations. ● Bankruptcy: When a party is declared bankrupt,
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. Discharge by Breach
A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to fulfill their part of the contract. This can result in discharge in two main ways: ● Material Breach: A serious breach that goes to the essence of the contract can discharge the non-breaching party from their obligations and possibly entitle them to damages. ● Anticipatory Breach: Occurs when one party indicates in advance that they will not be performing their contractual obligations, allowing the other party to be discharged.
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5. Discharge by Lapse of Time
Contracts can include a term that specifies that the obligations must be performed within a certain period. If the obligations are not performed within this time, the contract is typically discharged by lapse of time. Additionally, statutory limitations may apply, after which legal action cannot be initiated.
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Discharge by Conditional Contract
Sometimes a contract is entered into on a conditional basis. If the condition is not met, the contract may be discharged: ● Condition Precedent: The contract stipulates that unless a certain event occurs, the contract does not need to be performed. ● Condition Subsequent: The contract is discharged if a specific event occurs after the contract is executed.
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Anticipatory Repudiation
Situation: Two months before a custom furniture delivery is due, the buyer informs the maker that they will not pay for the items as they’re moving abroad. Analysis: The buyer's statement is an anticipatory repudiation of the contract, relieving the maker of the obligation to finish the furniture and allowing them to seek damages or sell the items to another buyer
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When a party breaches a contract, the non-breaching party has several remedies available. The selection of an appropriate remedy often depends on the nature of the breach and the damages caused.
40
Here are the primary remedies for breach of contract:
1. Damages - Compensatory damages - consequential damages - Punitive damages - Nominal Damages: - Liquidated Damages: 2. Specific Performance 3. Rescission 4. Reformation 5. Injuction 6. Reliance Damages 7. Restitution
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Compensatory Damages:
These are intended to compensate the non-breaching party for the loss directly resulting from the breach, aiming to put the party in the position they would have been in if the breach had not occurred. This is the most common form of damages.
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Consequential Damages
: Also known as special damages, these compensate for additional losses that are a foreseeable result of the breach beyond the immediate contractual harm. They must be proven with reasonable certainty and be a foreseeable result of the breach when the contract was made.
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● Punitive Damages:
Rare in contract law, punitive damages are intended to punish the breaching party for particularly egregious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. They are not usually awarded for simple breaches of contract but may be considered in cases involving tort actions in addition to the breach.
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● Nominal Damages:
When a breach has occurred, but the non-breaching party has not suffered any actual loss, nominal damages may be awarded. This is a small, often symbolic, amount of money.
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● Liquidated Damages:
These are damages specifically stated in the contract that the parties agree upon in advance as a reasonable estimation of the actual damages that would result from a breach.
46
Specific Performance
Specific performance is an equitable remedy that compels the breaching party to perform the contract according to its terms. It is typically used when monetary damages are inadequate to remedy the harm caused by the breach. This remedy is often sought for contracts involving unique items, such as real estate or rare goods.
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Rescission
Rescission is the cancellation of the contract and a return to the status quo ante, where both parties give back what they have received. If nothing has been exchanged yet, the contract is simply canceled. Rescission is often used when there has been a material misrepresentation, fraud, undue influence, or mutual mistake.
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Reformation
Basically redo contract instead of discarding it to make sense Reformation is the process of modifying the contract to reflect the parties' true intentions. This remedy is typically used when there has been a mutual mistake in the terms of the contract, or when the terms are found to be unenforceable as written. Reformation allows for the contract to be corrected without being entirely discarded.
49
Injunction
An injunction is a court order that requires a party to do or refrainfrom doing specific acts. It may be preventive (prohibitory injunction) to stop a party from doing something that would breach the contract, or mandatory, compelling action that fulfills the contractual agreement. Injunctions are often used in situations where a breach would cause irreparable harm that cannot be adequately remedied by damages.
50
Reliance Damages
Basically reimbursement of damages from relying on the contract to the party that didn't breach . Reliance damages reimburse the non-breaching party for expenses or losses incurred in reliance on the contract. These damages aim to put the injured party in the position they would have been in had the contract never been formed.
51
Quantum Meruit
Quantum meruit is not a remedy for breach of contract per se but is a principle used when no formal contract exists or when work has been performed under a contract that has been rescinded. The party who has performed the work can recover the reasonable value of their services in order to prevent unjust enrichment.
52
Restitution
Restitution is a remedy designed to prevent unjust enrichment. It requires the breaching party to return or pay for the benefit they have received. Restitution is commonly used when a contract is voided due to a party's incapacity or illegality.
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Rights of Debtors ● Fair Debt Collection: Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debtors have the right to be treated without harassment, oppression, or abuse by debt collectors.
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If a debtor files for bankruptcy, they may be liable for certain actions that took place prior to filing, such as preferential transfers or fraud.
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Secured Debts: For secured debts, such as car loans or mortgages, the debtor’s liability may include the surrender of the secured asset if they cannot fulfill their repayment obligations.
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Rights of Guarantors
- Right to Information: Guarantors have the right to be informed about the financial status of the debtor and any circumstances that might affect the debtor’s ability to repay the debt. - Subrogation - After paying the creditor, the guarantor has the right to take the place of the creditor and obtain the rights the creditor had against the debtor (subrogation), including any collateral or security - Indemnification - : Guarantors have the right to seek reimbursement from the principal debtor for any money they have paid under the guarantee. - Right to Limit Liability: Guarantors can sometimes limit their liability to a certain amount or for a specific period.
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indemnification
seek reimbursement, ex: An insurance company indemnifies an insured person for losses due to an accident or property damage. ,
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subrogation
take the place and rights of the creditors
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Duties of Guarantors:
● Duty to Pay: The guarantor has a duty to pay the debt according to the terms of the guarantee if the debtor defaults. ● Duty to Cooperate: Guarantors must cooperate with the creditor in any proceedings that are necessary once the guarantee is called upon. ● Duty to Disclose Information: Guarantors must disclose any information that materially alters the risk to the guarantor, like changes in the debtor's financial situation.
60
Limitations and Defenses for Guarantors:
● Defenses of the Debtor: Guarantors may use any defense that the debtor could have used against the creditor (e.g., fraud or duress in the making of the contract). ● Statute of Limitations: Guarantors can claim the statute of limitations if the creditor does not make a claim within the prescribed time. ● Release or Discharge: If the creditor releases the debtor or any co-guarantors from liability, this can sometimes release the guarantor. ● Bankruptcy of the Debtor: The bankruptcy of the principal debtor can affect the rights and liabilities of the guarantor, although generally, the guarantee survives the bankruptcy.
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Guarantor vs Surety
A. Nature of Obligation: Guarantor - Secondary obligation that arises only after the principal defaults and creditor has exhausted primary means of collection. Surety - Primary obligation that exists alongside the principal's obligation. B. When Creditor Can Claim from the Guarantor/Surety Guarantor -Typically, after creditor has made effort to collect from the principal debtor. Surety - Immediately upon principal's default, without needing to exhaust remedies against the debtor. C. Relationship to the Principal's Debt Guarantor - An accessory to the principal obligation. Guarantor's liability comes into play if the principal fails to perform. Surety - Coextensive with the principal obligation; surety's liability is often equal to the debtor's liability. D. Legal Form Guarantor - Informal agreement is often sufficient. Surety - Formal agreement is typically required.Regulated by statutes such as the Uniform Commercial Code. E. Common Usage Guarantor - Personal loans, leases, and informal credit extensions. Surety- Commercial contracts, performance bonds,construction bonds, and other situations where performance is guaranteed. F. Right of Recourse Against the Debtor Guarantor- A guarantor has the right to seek reimbursement from the principal debtor after paying the creditor. Surety - A surety has the right of subrogation to step into the shoes of the creditor and seek reimbursement from the principal debtor
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Types of Bankruptcy
-Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a liquidation -Chapter 11 for businesses and -Chapter 13 for individuals). Chapter 11 and 13 is reorganization
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Creditors must file proofs of claim to be eligible to receive distributions. Not all creditors must file a claim (e.g., secured creditors with a lien on property typically do not need to file)
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Distribution Hierarchy for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: The Bankruptcy Code establishes a clear hierarchy of claims:
○ Secured Claims: These are paid first from the proceeds of the collateral securing the debt. ○ Priority Unsecured Claims: These include administrative expenses, wages, salaries, and taxes.They are defined by the Bankruptcy Code and are paid in full before other unsecured claims. ○ Nonpriority Unsecured Claims: If there are any funds remaining, these claims are paid on a pro rata basis. Credit card debts, medical bills, and personal loans usually fall into this category
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Chapter 13 and Chapter 11 Bankruptcy (Reorganization) In a reorganization bankruptcy, the debtor retains their assets and pays creditors over time according to a court-approved repayment plan.
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1. Filing of Plan: The debtor proposes a repayment plan to pay back all or a portion of the debts over a three- to five-year period for Chapter 13 or according to the plan timeline in Chapter 11. 2. Plan Confirmation: The bankruptcy court must confirm the plan. The plan must be feasible, proposed in good faith, and in the best interests of creditors, meaning it must pay creditors at least as much as they would have received under a Chapter 7 liquidation. 3. Repayment: The debtor makes payments to a trustee, who then distributes payments to creditors according to the terms of the confirmed plan. ● Secured Creditors: In the reorganization plan, secured creditors can expect to receive at least the value of their collateral. If the debt exceeds the value of the collateral, the remainder may be treated as unsecured. ● Unsecured Creditors: Unsecured creditors may receive less than the full amount of their claims, but the debtor must use all disposable income towards the plan payments for the applicable commitment period. ● Completion and Discharge: Once the debtor completes the repayment plan, most remaining unsecured debts are discharged.
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The Bankruptcy Code specifies the order of priority for paying claims from the bankruptcy estate. If there are not enough funds to pay all claims within a particular class, the funds are distributed pro rata to creditors within that class.
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list from the highest priority to the lowest:
1. Primary Tier: Estate Costs and Fees ● Administrative expenses of the bankruptcy proceeding itself, including trustee fees, legal fees, and accounting fees. ● Gap creditors' claims for new credit extended to the debtor after a Chapter 7 filing but before the case is converted to another chapter. 2. Domestic Support Obligations alimony and child support 3. Administrative Expenses of a Trustee ● Expenses incurred in the operation of the debtor’s business by the trustee after the commencement of the bankruptcy case 4.Wages, Salaries, and Commissions 5. Contributions to Employee Benefit Plans ● Contributions to employee benefit plans for services rendered within 180 days before the filing of the bankruptcy petition or the cessation of the debtor's business, capped at a certain amount per individual. Grain Farmers and Fishermen Claims 6. Claims of grain farmers and fishermen against storage and processing facilities, up to a certain amount. Consumer Deposits 7. Claims of individuals for deposits made for the purchase, lease, or rental of property or services for personal, family, or household use, up to a certain amount, that were not delivered or provided. 8. Taxes and Certain Other Debts Owed to Governmental Units 9. Commitments to Maintain the Capital of an Insured Depository Institution
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10. Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures ● Certain fines, penalties, and forfeitures payable to governmental units that are not compensation for actual pecuniary loss. 11.Subordinated Claims ● This includes claims that are subordinated by statute, such as penalties or fines, or subordinated by contractual agreement. 12. Interest ● Interest accrued on unsecured claims during the bankruptcy case. Stockholders or Partners 13.Finally, equity security holders (shareholders or partners) receive any remaining assets, if any.
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Secured Creditors
A secured creditor is an individual or business that holds a claim against the debtor that is secured by a lien on property of the debtor. This lien can be voluntary, such as with a mortgage or a car loan, or it can be involuntary, such as a mechanic's lien or a tax lien.
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The key characteristics of a secured creditor are:
- Collateral: if the debtor fails to pay the debt, the secured creditor has the right to seize the collateral, sell it, and apply the proceeds to the outstanding debt. - Priority in Bankruptcy - Agreement: The relationship between a secured creditor and the debtor is usually established through a contract -Perfection: For a secured creditor to enforce its security interest against third parties, including other creditors, the interest must usually be "perfected" by registering it with the appropriate state or federal registry, depending on the type of collateral. - Risk and Interest Rates: Because their loans are backed by collateral, secured creditors typically face lower risk and, consequently, may offer lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans.
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Unsecured Creditors An unsecured creditor does not have a lien on the debtor's property. The credit extended to the debtor is based largely on creditworthiness and the debtor's promise to repay, without specific collateral to secure the obligation.
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Characteristics of Unsecured Creditors
- No Collateral: - Bankruptcy Position: In bankruptcy, unsecured creditors are typically paid after secured creditors and priority unsecured claims (like certain taxes and child support obligations). . - Claims: Common examples of secured claims include credit card debt, medical bills, utility bills, and unsecured personal loans. - Risk and Interest Rates: Unsecured creditors bear a greater risk since they do not have a claim on any specific asset if Therefore, they generally charge higher interest rates to compensate for the increased risk. - Legal Remedies: If an unsecured creditor is not paid, they must file a lawsuit to obtain a judgment against the debtor. Only after obtaining a judgment can the creditor pursue collection actions such as garnishing wages or levying bank accounts
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Perfecting a security interest is an important process in securing a lender's rights against the borrower's assets in the event of default. The steps and requirements can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of asset, but generally involve the following key steps:
1. Attachment of the Security Interest: 3 requirements: i. Value: The lender (secured party) must give something of value in exchange for the security interest. ii. Contractual Agreement: There needs to be an agreement, either explicit or implied, that creates the security interest. This is typically done through a security agreement. iii. Rights in the Collateral: The borrower (debtor) must have rights in the collateral or the power to transfer rights in the collateral to the secured party.
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2. Perfection of the Security Interest: After attachment, the security interest must be perfected. Filing a Financing Statement: For most types of personal property, a financing statement (often a UCC-1 form in the United States) must be filed with an appropriate government office (usually a Secretary of State or similar agency). ● Possession of the Collateral: In the case of tangible property, taking physical possession of the collateral can perfect the security interest. ● Control: For certain types of collateral, such as deposit accounts or electronic chattel paper, perfection is achieved by the secured party taking control of the collateral. ● Automatic Perfection: For some types of collateral, such as purchase-money security interests in consumer goods, perfection is automatic upon attachment.
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3. Continued Compliance and Monitoring: The secured party must ensure continued compliance with the relevant laws and regulations. This includes maintaining the perfection of the security interest, 4. Priority and Enforcement: In case of the debtor's default, the order of priority determines which creditors get paid first. The secured party may enforce the security interest by repossessing and disposing of the collateral according to the law and the terms of the agreement.
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Implied duties an Agent owes their Principal (mnemonic)
LORA ● L - Duty of Loyalty ● O - Duty of Obedience ● R - Duty of Reasonable Care ● A - Duty to Account
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Common law pertains to contracts involving (mnemonic)
RISE ● R - Real estate ● I - Insurance ● S - Services ● E - Employment
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Contracts can be terminated through operation of law (mnemonic)
DIDI ● D - Death (or incapacity) ● I - Incompetency ● D - Destroyed ● I - Illegality
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Scenarios that make a contract VOID (mnemonic)
(D)A PIE ● (D) - Destruction of subject matter ● A - Adjudicated incompetency ● P - Physical duress ● I - Illegality ● E - Fraud in the Execution
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Six types of contracts that must be in writing (Statute of Frauds) (mnemonic)
MY LEGS ● M - Marriage ● Y - Cannot be performed within Mone Year ● L - Land ● E - Executors or similar representatives ● G - Goods costing $500 or more ● S - Acting as a Surety
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COAXL – Summary of Elements of a Contract (mnemonic)
● C - Capacity (competent; adult) ● O - Offer ● A - Acceptance ● X - Exchange consideration ● L - Legal
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Summary of potential Defenses for Contracts (mnemonic)
DUMIS ● D - Duress ● U - Undue influence ● M - Mutual mistake or misrepresentation ● I - Intoxicated ● S - Statute of frauds or limitations
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Automatic termination of Actual Authority and Apparent Authority by operation of law (mnemonic)
BID LID - Automatic termination of Actual Authority and Apparent Authority by operation of law: ● B - Bankruptcy of the principal ● I - Incapacity of the principal ● D - Death of either principal or agent ● L - Failure to acquire necessary License ● I - Subsequent Illegality ● D - Destruction of the subject matter
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Defenses of a Surety
SCRIP - ● S - Surety lacks capacity or is bankrupt. ● C - Creditor acts in bath faith or consideration is not given. ● R - Risk is varied ● I - Illegal debt ● P - Payment already made or tendered to be paid by debtor