Genuine Assent Chapter 7
Genuine Assent ► True and complete intent to enter into a contract Without it, contracts are typically voidable
Voidable – if the injured party desires, they can cancel their obligation and get back what they have already put in
► Rescission – when the injured/forced party cancels their obligation of a contract ► Ratification – suggesting you intend to be bound by contract
Duress ► Occurs when one party uses improper threat or act to obtain a contract ► Creates a VOIDABLE contract
Types of Duress 1. Threats of illegal conduct 2. Threats to report crimes 3. Threats to sue 4. Economic threats
Undue Influence ► Occurs when one party is in a position of trust and wrongfully dominates and deceives the other party ► VOIDABLE by the victim
Mistake, Misrepresentation & Fraud
Unilateral Mistake ► Occurs when only one party holds an incorrect belief about the facts of a contract
Mutual (bilateral) Mistake ► Both parties have an incorrect belief about an important fact of a contract ► Also known as “Mutual Mistake” ► Contract is VOID
Material Facts are the important facts that influence a persons decision to enter into a contract
Two types of Misrepresentation ► Innocent Misrepresentation (involuntary) ► Fraudulent Misrepresentation (voluntary)
Requirements of Misrepresentation 1. Untrue statement is one of fact or active concealment 2. Statement is material to the transaction 3. Victim reasonably relied on statement
Fraud ► Based on misrepresentation ► Must be proven to show… All elements of misrepresentation Intent Injury
Remedies for Fraud ► Rescission (cancel the contract) ► Damages Recovery from loss ► Punitive Damages Forms of punishment (above and beyond recovery from loss)