Source: http://cueflash.com/Decks/contracts_nueva_york/
Timestamp: 2018-03-21 09:12:52
Document Index: 338430941

Matched Legal Cases: ['Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'art 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2', 'Art. 2']

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Glossary of contracts nueva york
What is the applicable law for contracts?
Article 2 UCC applies to the sale of goods (moveable, personal property); CL applies to all other k's
Does it matter whether the parties are merchants for Art. 2 to apply?
No. It also doesn't matter what the k price is.
Which law governs loans?
What is the applicable law when there is a mix of goods and services?
The law corresponding to the more important element
What is the applicable NY law for leases of goods?
Does Article 2A apply to the lease of real property?
A legally enforceable agreement. A promise or a set of promises for breach of which law gives a remedy
Created by the parties' words, either oral or written
Created by the parties' conduct
An equitable remedy. Used when k law yields an unfair result. It protects against unjust enrichment
What is the recovery under a quasi-contract?
Reasonable value of the benefit conferred (NOT the k price)
What is a bilateral k?
The offer can be accepted in any reasonable way (EVERY k unless it says)
What is a unilateral k?
An offer that can be accepted only by performing. The offeror clearly indicates that performance is the only manner of acceptance OR makes an offer to the public clearly contemplating acceptance by performance
What is a void k?
A k without any legal effect FROM THE BEGINNING. Can not be enforced
What is a voidable k?
A party may elect to avoid or ratify the k (ex: k by a minor)
What is an unenforceable k?
A k that is otherwise valid BUT FOR which some defense exists extraneous to formation
How should you approach a contracts question generally?
Look for an offer that has been accepted, then see if it is legally enforceable (look for defenses against formation). In other words, Mutual assent (offer and acceptance) - words or conduct manifested a present intention to enter a k; consideration or substitute; AND no defenses to formation
Must be (a) expression of a promise, undertaking, or commitment to enter into a k; (b) definite and certain in its terms; and (c) communicated to the offeree
What are some factors that you might consider when answering whether an offer is sufficient?
Language used, prior relationship of the parties, method of communication, custom of industry, degree of definiteness and certainty of terms
How is the "power of acceptance" important to an offer?
An offer must sufficiently identify the offeree or class to justify the inference that the offeror intended to create such a power
What does the offer have to do with regards to real estate?
identify the land and price terms
What does the offer have to do for the sale of goods?
the quantity must be certain or capable of being made so. It is sufficient if the offer specifies a reasonable range of choices
What does the offer have to do for an employment k?
What happens if there are missing terms in the offer?
Certain missing terms may be supplied by the court if consistent with the parties' intent.
What terms can be supplied by the UCC?
A reasonable price term and time for performance
Why is a vague term a problem?
A vague term may defeat k formation unless acceptance or part performance makes the term clear
What happens if a k says that a material term will be agreed on at a future date?
The k fails
Are there other requirements for a valid offer?
The offer must be communicated to the offeree; it must manifest an intention to be bound (by words or conduct)
Usually not. Usually do not contain a quantity term. An unlimited number of people could accept
How should we analyze the content of the offer?
Look to see if the terms are too indefinite to be performed
What is a requirements k?
"Offer to buy all of its requirements of beans from seller for 6 years for $1 per can" Acceptable. Look for words like "all" or "only"
Are offers for requirements k's acceptable?
Yes, if they are sufficiently definite (even though there is no quantity mentioned
What happens when after entering a requirements k, there is a sudden change in the buyer's requirements?
The buyer cannot take the seller by surprise. Any increase can't be out of line with the buyer's prior demands
What is an open price term?
Ex: letter does not state a price
Is an open price term acceptable?
No. too indefinite under CL (but NOT under Art. 2). Under CL, not an offer
After answering whether the offer is acceptable, what do we ask next?
What happens once an offer has terminated?
It cannot be accepted (dead)
After a stated term or after a reasnoable time has passed
When the offeror revokes the offer
How does an offeror revoke an offer
Direct: offeror unambiguously indicates directly to offeree that he changed his mind.
Indirect: offeror engages in conduct that unambiguously indicates he's changed his mind AND offeree is AWARE of the conduct
On receipt only. If had already accepted the offer before receipt, too late to revoke
What is the general rule for revocation?
Offeror can revoke at any time before acceptance
Are there times when the offeror CANNOT revoke before acceptance?
4. firm offer under Art. 2
A promise to keep the offer open that is paid for (consideration). Merely promising to keep the offer open is not enough
What is reasonably foreseeable detrimental reliance before acceptance?
Ex: contractor relies on subcontractor's bid in computing its own bid (this is the ONLY case where this works)
When does beginning performance eliminate the offeror's option to revoke before acceptance?
When it occurs in an offer to enter a unilateral k - if beginning performance, cannot revoke (MBE). Mere preparation is not enough to make the offer irrevocable
What is the NY rule for beginning performance?
An offer can be revoked until performance is COMPLETED
What is a firm offer under Art. 2?
A signed, written promise by a merchant to keep an offer open. Does not have to be paid for. No consideration
Is there a time limit for a firm offer?
Has a three month cap (if says "will not revoke for 6 mo's," scale back to 3
Can you have an option under Art. 2?
Yes. It is not subject to the same restrictions as a firm offer. If you have consideration in exchange for the promise to keep the offer open.
What if the firm offer does not state a time period?
The offer will be open for a reasonable time, not to exceed three months
In NY, is a signed, written promise not to revoke enough to keep the offer open?
Yes, even without payment
Express or by counteroffer
What happens when offeree rejects an option?
Does not terminate the offer; still free to accept within the option period unless the offeror has detrimentally relied on the rejection
Can bargaining tactics count as a rejection?
No - mere bargaining is not a rejection ("will you take 100k?")
Is conditional acceptance a rejection?
Yes ("on the condition that," "provided that," "so long as," "if")
Does acceptance containing additional or different words operate as a rejection?
Under the CL, yes, but not under Art. 2
What is the CL rule for acceptance containing additional words?
Mirror image rule: terms of acceptance must mirror terms of an offer
What is the Art. 2 rule for acceptance containing additional words?
Does not have to mirror offer. Do not prevent acceptance. But, additional terms do not automatically become part of the k
Under Art. 2, what happens to additional terms in an acceptance?
Become part of the k ONLY if (a) both parties are merchants, (b) the term is not a material change, and (c) the offeror does not object within reasonable time
How do we know if the change is material?
If the term the offeree adds is customary in the trade, not a material change
What is an example of a material change?
A provision that disclaims all warranties. Likely to cause hardship or surprise to the offeror
What if the seller added "Saturday delivery" and then buyer responded that it was not convenient?
The term would be out - offeror objected to it
How can an offer terminate by operation of law?
Death or insanity of either party, destruction of the k's subject matter, or supervening illegality
Is there an exception to the rule that states death of either party before acceptance terminates an offer?
Irrevocable offer: X makes offer to Y. X promises not to revoke offer for 7 days in exchange for $100. Y pays X 100. Y can still accept X's offer as long as during 7 day period
Once we determine that there has been a valid offer and that the offer has not been revoked/terminated, what do we ask next?
What are the requirements for an acceptance?
1. offeree with power of acceptance
What is the CL rule for acceptance?
Must mirror the offeror's terms (otherwise, may be a counteroffer)
What is the UCC (sale of goods) rule for acceptance?
Need not mirror terms. If indicates the intention ot enter into a k, valid unless it is made conditional on the acceptance of new or different terms
What happens between merchants to additional terms in an acceptance?
Become part of the k unless they materially alter the agreement, the offer expressly limits acceptance to the terms of the offer, or the offeror objects within a reasonable time
What are some usual methods of accepting an offer?
By giving a promise, performing, or starting performance
When do the usual methods of acceptance not apply?
When the language of the offer, which controls, says otherwise. Ex: "only by" indicates unilateral k. "Only by shipping within 23 hours. S faxes back "I accept. I will ship within 24 hours." If S does not ship within 24 hours, did NOT accept the offer and is not liable for breach. Cf: widgets must be shipped within 24 hours. S faxes: I will ship within 24 hours. If S does not ship within 24 hours, S liable for breach. Promise is good enough here. S has accepted buyer's offer.
What if an acceptance is transmitted by an unauthorized means?
It is effective if received by the offeror while the offer is still open
Can a k be formed without communication of acceptance?
A bilateral k may be formed this way when (a) there is express waiver of communication in the offer, (b) the offer requires an act as acceptance, and (c) offeree silently takes the offered benefits
Is the start of performance an acceptance of an offer?
Yes, for an offer to enter into a bilateral k (NOT for offer to enter unilateral k)
Is the start of performance an acceptance of a unilateral k offer?
No, only by completing performance. BUT once an offeree starts to perform, it is too late for offeror to revoke
Does improper performance operate as an acceptance?
Yes, but also operates as a simultaneous breach
Does improper performance operate as acceptance under Art. 2?
Yes. BUT if send an accommodation in the hope that it meets B's needs, S has not accepted. Therefore, no breach
Does silence operate as acceptance?
No. The offeror cannot turn the offeree's silence into acceptance
Acceptance is effective when it's mailed (offeree can rely on a k having been formed once he sends an acceptance)
What happens when parties' communications conflict?
Need to figure out which communication controls
On whom does the burden of loss fall?
On the offeror - so if acceptance letter is lost, still can be an acceptance
Are there exceptions to the mailbox rule?
1. does not apply if offer provides otherwise
3. acceptance, then rejection
What is the "acceptance, then rejection" exception to the mailbox rule?
Here, the mailbox rule applies UNLESS the rejection gets there first and the offeror relies on the overtaking rejection
What about when there is a rejection, followed by an acceptance?
Whichever arrives first controls. Offeree who rejects first does not need protection of the rule (he isn't going to rely on a k being formed). Here, acceptance effective ONLY onl receipt
What is the rule of formation for a unilateral k?
Offeree must act with knowledge of the offer and be motivated by it. Duty to give notice of performance to the offeror if he requests notice or if the act would not normally come to his attention
What is the rule of formation for a bilateral k?
Offeree's ignorance of certain k terms may be a defense to formation. Oppressive terms or terms contrary to public policy may prevent formation. Blanket form recitals will not prevent court from holding that there is no k if a reasonable person would not understand the provisions
What are the defenses against k formation?
1. D's lack of capacity
What is the defense of lack of capacity?
If under 18, intoxicated, or mentally incompetent. Incapacitated D has the right to void the k. Only D needs capacity, not P. Doesn't matter whether D said he was 18.
Can an incapacitated party ever affirm a k?
Yes, by retaining the benefit of the k without complaint after regaining capacity
What is an incapacitated person liable for in a k?
Necessaries (food, clothing, shelter, medical care), but only on a quasi-contract basis (only for the reasonable value of these, not the k price)
Threat to break existing k unless the other party gets another or a better deal. The other party agrees only because he needs to get the first deal done. No other alternative
How does misrepresentation affect a k?
Even an honest or innocent misrepresentation can be fatal (as long as it's material); same for nondisclosure
When is a k voidable for misrepresentation?
When an innocent party justifiably relied on it
When is a k void rather than voidable?
Fraud in the factum (party tricked into assenting without understanding significance of her action), rather than fraud in the inducement (misrepresentation)
What are the kinds of mistakes about material facts?
Mutual mistake and unilateral mistake
Both parties are under the mistaken belief that the facts are one way. Whether something exists or what something is, NOT mistake as to value
What are the steps to mutual mistake?
1. basic assumption on which k made
When parties know that their assumption is doubtful, mutual mistake is not a defense - assumed the risk that their assumption is wrong
Why doesn't mistake as to market value count for mutual mistake?
Courts assume that the buyer should have had deal appraised before agreeing to pay
Usually not a fatal flaw. Mere fact that one party has mistaken believe is not fatal in the agreement process UNLESS the other party is aware of the mistake
In a k, you need a BARGAIN and you need the exchange of legal value. The combination of these two factors is consideration
Bargained-for legal detriment/benefit. Can take the form of a promise, performance, or forbearance
Is an exchange required for consideration?
Yes. You must exchange something (in bilateral, parties exchange promises; in unilateral, they exchange promise for an act). Ex: seller's promise to sell the dog is consideration for buyer's promise to buy it. One promise can be consideration for another promise
What is consideration as forbearance?
Promise to pay if stop something and you stop. This forbearance is consideration, so the other party has to pay the money
No. NY exception: "as thanks for helping me, I promise to pay you $300" - binding if expressly stated in signed writing and can be proved
Does the amount of consideration matter?
No. Adequacy of consideration is irrelevant (as long as there is a bargain)
What if consideration is devoid of value?
Then it is insufficient
What if consideration is "sham"?
If recited in the k, but not actually paid, it is insufficient
What is the general rule for adequacy of consideration?
Where there is the possibility of value, it will be found even if the value never comes into existence
Does consideration have to be economic benefit?
Is an act or forbearance by the promisee sufficient for consideration?
Yes, if it benefits the promisor
Is a legal benefit and detriment required for consideration?
MAJ: party must incur a detriment (do something not legally obligated to do or refrain from something you have a legal right to do) to satisfy the legal value requirement.
MIN: conferring a benefit on the other party is also sufficient
What is the pre-existing legal duty rule for consideration?
Performing or promising to perform an existing legal duty is insufficient consideration
Are there exceptions to the pre-existing legal duty rule?
4. there is an honest dispute as to the duty OR there are unforeseen circ's sufficient to discharge a party
Does the UCC require consideration for modifying a k?
Good faith agreement modifying a k subject to the UCC needs no consideration
Is a promise to refrain from suing on a claim consideration?
May be if the claim is valid or claimant in good faith believed the claim was valid
Consideration must exist on both sides of a k. If only one party is bound to perform, the promise is illusory. Not enforced. But courts can supply an implied promise ("party must use her best efforts") to infer mutuality
Must all consideration be valid?
Is consideration required to modify a k under the CL?
Yes (pre-existing duty rule). If you are only doing what you already were obligated to do, no consideration
What is the NY rule for whether consideration is needed in a k modification?
If the modification is contained in a signed writing, the pre-existing duty rule does not apply. The signed writing takes the place of consideration
Does the pre-existing duty rule apply to a promise made by a third party?
No. It is a bar only between the two parties to the original k
What does Art. 2 say about the pre-existing duty rule?
Only good faith is needed to modify a k. Consideration not required
Can part payment be consideration?
Yes, for a promise to forgive the rest of a DISPUTED debt
How does NY modify the "part payment as consideration" rule?
In NY, you don't need consideration if the promise to forgive the balance of the debt was in a signed writing
Is a written promise to pay a debt, the collection of which is barred by the SOL, enforceable?
Yes, even without consideration. The writing serves as a substitute for consideration (NY and MBE)
A consideration substitute. Need a promise and foreseeable, detrimental reliance on the promise by the other party
What are the steps for promissory estoppel?
1. promisor reasonably expected her promise to induce action or forbearance
3. such action is in fact induced
What effect does illegality at the time of an agreement have on a k?
If the subject matter of an agreement is illegal, the k is unenforceable
Is there an exception for illegality?
You can recover from someone if you do not know about their illegal purpose
What is the effect of a latent ambiguity on a k?
1. if neither party is aware, no k unless both parties intended the same meaning
3. if one party is aware, k based on what the ignorant party reasonably believed to be the meaning of the ambiguous words
How will a court interpret a covenant not to compete?
Will invalidate or narrow it if it operates as a restraint on trade. Consider the SCOPE and NEED for the covenant. Scope: is the geographic limit and time limit reasonable? Need: is there a reasonable need for the protection?
How will a court interpret an exculpatory clause?
It can eliminate liability for negligence, but not for gross negligence or intentional tort
How will a court interpret unconscionable terms in a k?
Terms that are oppressive or an unfair surprise AT THE TIME of agreement will not be allowed. Can be substantive (terms unfair) or procedural (process by which agreement was reached was unfair - fine print, legalese, unequal bargaining power)
How will the court test for unconscionability?
Tested at the time a k was made. Include k's with inconspicuous risk-shifting and k's of adhesion (take it or leave it)
What is the analysis under the Statute of Frauds?
Do we need a writing, do we have a satisfactory writing, and if we don't, is there an exception?
What does "within the SOF" mean?
Means you have to evidence the k by a writing for it to be enforced.
Are most oral k's enforceable?
What kinds of k's have to be in writing?
1. transfer of interest in RE
8. misc. provisions of NY SOF (assignment of ins policy, agreement to pay commission or finder's fee)
Does a transfer of interest in RE fall within the SOF?
Yes (easements, leases, other transfers covered), but k's to do something on the land do not fall within SOF. Leases for 1yr or less don't count
Is a service k that cannot be fully performed within 1 yr from the date of agreement within the SOF?
Yes. Focus on what might have happened under the terms. See if something on the face of the k would prevent it from being fully performed within a year. Oral agreements to employ for rest of life don't fall within SOF - could die within 1yr (but NY - ARE within SOF!)
How do we measure the time for SOF questions?
Clock starts from time of agreement, not when performance is to begin
Do modified k's fall within the SOF?
Only if the k as modified falls within the SOF
If the original k prohibits oral modification, can oral modification be effective?
Yes, under CL. Clauses that require a modification to be in writing are not enforceable (are enforceable under Art. 2)
What kind of writing satisfies the SOF for a sale of goods?
Must contain a quantity term and be signed by the D (party asserting SOF defense), doesn't need a price term
What kind of writing satisfies the SOF for a lease of goods?
Writing has to state that it's a lease, include the number of items leased, the term and rental payments, and be signed by D
Other than the writing requirement, what are the other prongs of the SOF?
Writing must contain all material terms (who and what) and be signed by the D (one-way street). Identify parties sought to be charged, ID k's subject matter, terms and conditions of agreement, recital of consideration, AND signature of the party to be charged
Does everything have to be in one writing to satisfy the SOF?
No, several pieces of writing will suffice
What are some exceptions to the SOF?
1. One year prong - full performance eliminates need for a writing
5. Equal dignities rule: only for real property. Written authority to enter a k on behalf of another person is required if underlying k falls within SOF
How to avoid the one year prong for the SOF?
Full performance eliminates need for writing. P doesn't need a writing to satisfy SOF against D. Part-performance is not enough to satisfy. Can STILL recover in quasi-k for reasonable value of benefit conferred
How to avoid the RE prong for SOF?
Part performance eliminates need for writing. Need 2 out of 3: (a) some kind of payment, (b) buyer makes improvements to property, (c) buyer is in possession of the RE. Payment alone, even full payment, is not enough to satisfy part performance
How to avoid the sale of goods prong for SOF?
Goods buyer accepted or paid for. BUT goods not yet accepted by the buyer - seller can raise the SOF defense. If buyer paid for all goods, seller can't raise SOF defense.
Are there other exceptions under sale of goods for SOF?
Judicial admission (party admits in judicial context that k was made); custom made goods (if goods not suitable for sale to others) - here, little chance of fraud, so no writing required; merchant's confirmatory memo of prior oral agreement (buyer can use its OWN letter to satisfy the SOF against seller!)
What are the requirements for a merchant's confirmatory memo for a prior oral agreement?
(a) both parties must be merchants, (b) writing must allege the prior oral agreement, (c) there must not be a response - it's the lack of response that PROVES lack of fraud
Why is a guarantee an exception to a SOF?
If guarantor's main purpose in making a promise is to benefit himself, then there's no need for a writing (MBE). Very little chance of fraud if promise is to secure his own benefit. NY: NO main purpose exception
What is the equal dignities exception to the SOF?
Applies only in context of RP transactions. Written authority to enter a k on behalf of another person is required if the underlying k falls within SOF
Once a k is formed and proven, how do we interpret it?
K is construed as a whole, according to ordinary meaning of words. Written or typed prevail over printed. Ambiguities construed against party preparing k. Look to custom and usage of business and locale to determine parties' intent
Evidence of prior or contemporaneous negotiations/agreements that contradict, modify, or vary k terms is INADMISSIBLE if the written k is intended as a complete and final expression of the parties.
What are exceptions to the PER?
Evidence of the following is admissible: formation defects, existence of condition precedent to a k, intent regarding ambiguous terms, consideration problems, prior valid agreement that by mistake is incorrectly reflected in the writing, collateral agreement if it does not contradict or vary the main contract and subsequent modifications
How does the PER relate to writings?
PER keeps out evidence of what the parties said and wrote before they reduced the terms of their agreement to writing. Assumes that a written version of an agreement is more reliable than anything that came before it
Where does parol evidence get in?
1. to correct a clerical error (typo, transposing)
4. to supplement a partially-integrated writing (a final statement of the terms included in the writing, but not a complete statement of all terms agreed to)
When does parol evidence get in to supplement a partially-integrated writing?
Can supplement or add to a writing because it doesn't appear complete on its face. BUT if k has a merger clause (this k is limited to terms herein), this is evidence that the writing is complete on its face
Can we use PER after an agreement has been reduced to writing?
No - at this point the rules of modification apply. PER looks BACKWARD
How can we use conduct of the parties to interpret a k?
Can be used to explain terms or fill gaps. Court will consider
3. usage of trade - what others in the trade do under similar circumstances (in this kind of k generally)
How do we analyze seller's warranties of quality in a sale of goods under Art. 2?
First look for express and implied warranties, then for disclaimers/limitations. Seller is liable to the buyer for breach of any express warranty the seller makes
Statement of fact, promise, or description of goods. Mere expressions of opinion are NOT express warranties
Goods are fit for their ordinary purpose. Seller must be merchant who deals in goods of the kind, not just any merchant, since this implied warranty is associated with specialized knowledge about the goods (REGULAR INVENTORY)
Goods are fit for the buyer's special purpose. Buyer has a special purpose in mind. Buyer is relying on the seller to select suitable goods. AND seller knows both of these facts (seller does NOT have to be a merchant at all!)
What is a seller's warranty of quality for lease of goods under Art. 2A?
Have the same implied warranties in a lease as in a sale of goods (merchantability, etc.). Exception: finance lease. Lease computer from Citibank, which bought the computer from gateway. No implied warranty of merchantability. No implied warranties are made by the bank. Only made by the computer company
Are there ways to limit warranty liability in sales and leases of goods?
1. seller can disclaim implied warranties, but not express
2. seller can limit a buyer's remedies for breach of any warranty if the limitation is not unconscionable
What is an example of a seller disclaiming implied warranties?
K provides for sale or lease of computer AS IS. No implied warranties under k. AS IS disclaims implied
What if a k provides that there are "no implied warranties of fitness or merchantability"
There are no implied warranties. Effective because conspicuous. Bold or different typeface, large print, etc.
May a seller limit a buyer's remedies for breach of any warranty?
Yes, if the limit is not unconscionable. However, limiting a buyer's remedies for personal injury is prima facie unconscionable if consumer goods are involved. NATURE OF BUYER'S INJURIES MATTERS
What is the test for unconscionability?
Whether the limitation was unconscionable at the time of the k, not at the time of the mishap
What is a seller's delivery obligation in a sale or lease of goods involving a common carrier - for a shipment k?
S must get the goods to a common carrier, make reasonable delivery arrangements, and notify the buyer about the arrangements (not obligated to get the goods to the buyer)
What is the seller's delivery obligation in a sale or lease of goods involving a common carrier - for a destination k?
Seller must get the goods to a specific destination (usually place where B is located)
What is the risk of loss in sales of goods when goods are damaged before the B gets the goods and neither B nor S is to blame?
If S bears risk of loss, the S must provide new goods to the buyer for no additional cost, or is liable for breach of k. If B bears risk, B must still pay k price
How do we determine who bears the risk of loss?
Agreement of the parties controls. A breaching party bears any uninsured loss, even if loss is completely unrelated to the breach (ex: if ship one week after k deadline, bears risk of loss)
When delibery is by common carrier, when does the risk shift to the buyer?
When S has completed delivery obligations
IN k's that specify that delivery is FOB a paticular point, the FOB point is the delivery point. The delivery point may be seller's place of shipment or goods' final desination.
What if the FOB is not the city in which the seller is located?
Then we're dealing with a desination k
Who bears the risk of loss if there is no common carrier (the buyer picks up or the seller delivers)?
Depends on whether the seller is a merchant. If a merchant, the seller bears the risk of loss until the buyer takes possession of the goods. If seller is non-merchant, S bears risk of loss until S tenders goods (makes them available to B, such as by letting B know where the item is and how to get it)
If a k gives the buyer the right to return goods, who bears the risk of loss?
If buying primarily for resale, same rules apply. If for B's own use, risk of loss remains on the S until B has actually accepted the goods
Who bears the risk in a lease of goods under 2A?
Lessor bears the risk, except in a finance lease
Performance of a k for sale of goods: what is the perfect tender rule?
A S must deliver perfect goods in the right place at the right time. If seller fails to make perfect tender, B has right to reject the goods
What is the option to cure?
S who fails to make perfect tender may have option to cure. Depends on whether time for seller's performance has expired. Can make it right before the deadline. If time for performance expired, no option to cure.
Are there exceptions to the option to cure?
If buyer in the past had accepted yellow T-shirts instead of green in exchange for 10% discount, S has right to cure even though the k deadline has passed
Requires or authorizes the seller to deliver the goods in separate installments. Perfect tender rule does not apply (assumes S will cure in the course of ongoing performance). B can reject only if there is a substantial impairment in an installment sales K (if less than perfect tender but not substantial impairment, cannot reject)
What is implied acceptance?
When buyer keeps the goods without objection after having an opportunity to inspect. Merely paying for goods is not acceptance
Can a buyer who accepted goods reject?
It's too late to reject. However, B who accepts nonconforming goods can still get damages
What is the rule for revoking acceptance of nonconforming goods?
Can revoke only if the non-conformity substantially impairs their value and was difficult to discover
What is the buyer's payment obligation?
Checks are OK but a seller can insist on cash. If S insists on cash, B will have reasonable time within which to get the cash
What is the general CL rule for performance of k's?
Does not have to be perfect. Substantial performance is all that is required - no material breach if so
Can performance be excused based on later events (after k has been formed)?
7. impossibility, impracticability, or frustration
How does failure to cooperate excuse a condition?
If it wrongfully prevents a condition from occurring
How can the other party's breach provide an excuse for non-performance?
Sale of goods (art 2): if seller does not make perfect tender, B can reject ALL goods and is excused from paying k price (also entitled to get damages from the seller, even if accepts the goods)
CL: damages available for any breach of k, but only a material breach excuses the injured party from having to perform (and then can still sue to recover under Q-k for reasonable value of benefits conferred)
How can a party's anticipatory repudiation provide an excuse for nonperformance?
If the party repudiates the k before the time performance is due. AR operates as a material breach. Can retract AR so long as they have not relied on it. Can repudiate the k by conduct - other party is excused from performing
What is the general rule for anticipatory repudiation?
Must be unequivocal, not just expression of doubt. Applies only if there are executory (unperformed) duties on both sides of a bilateral k
What options does the nonrepudiating party have?
1. treat the k as totally repudiated and sue immediately
4. ignore repudiation and urge performance (by doing this, not waiving the repudiation - can still sue for breach and is excused from performing unless repudiation is retracted)
How does prospective inability/unwillingness to perform excuse a condition?
If reasonable grounds to believe the other party will be unable/unwilling to perform when performance is due (reasonable person standard), the innocent party may suspend her own performance until she receives adequate assurances of performance. Retraction is possible, but may be ineffective if the other party changed her position in reliance on the prospective performance
How does substantial performance excuse a condition?
If there are almost completely performed duties, but breached in some minor way - avoids forfeiture of a return performance. Usually applied only when constructive conditions are involved (apply to express might defeat express intent of parties)
How does divisibility of k excuse a condition?
Performs one of the units of divisible k, entitled to agreed equivalent for that unit even though she fails to perform other units
How do we know when a k is divisible?
1. performance of each party is divided into 2+ parts under the k
3. performance of each part by one party is the agreed equivalent of the corresponding part by the other party
May a buyer declare total breach of an installment k if there is breach of an installment?
Only if defects in an installment are such as to substantially impair the value of the entire k
How does waiver or estoppel excuse a condition?
A party can waive a condition by indicating he will not insist on it. Such a waiver may be retracted at any time unless the other party relies on the waiver and changes her position to her detriment
How do we discharge a duty to perform?
1. performance or tender of
4. impossibility (objective), impracticability, frustration
May a party who rendered part performance prior to impossibility recover in quasi-k?
What counts as impossibility?
1. Death or physical incapacity of a person necessary to effectuate the k (NOT if can be delegated and services not unique)
3. subsequent destruction of the k's subject matter (as long as promisor was not at fault and it is truly impossible to fulfill the terms of the k at any price)
When a k to build's subject matter is accidentally destroyed, is the performance discharged?
Not discharged by impossibility because builder is still capable of starting over and rebuilding
When a k to repair's subject matter is destroyed, is performance discharged?
Yes, because nothing left to repair
What counts as impracticability?
Subjective. Party encouters extreme and unreasonable difficulty or expense that was not anticipated
What counts as frustration of purpose?
3. completely or almost completely destroys the purpose of the k and
4. purpose was understood by both parties
How else might we excuse non-performance?
By later agreement between the parties
What are examples of later agreements that can provide excuse for non-performance?
Rescission, modification, accord, novation
Agreement to cancel the k. Before services, agree to rescind the k. Excused by the rescission agreement
What if agree to rescind after services are finished?
Obligation to pay is not excused. For agreement to be effective, both parties must have some performance remaining under the k (here, there's no consideration for promise to let party off the hook)
When is rescission usually enforced?
Where a bilateral k has been partially performed
When is rescission not enforced?
Where a unilateral k and only one party still has duty to perform UNLESS (a) there is offer of new consideration by nonperforming party, (b) there are elements of PE, or (c) original offeree manifests an intent to make a gift of the obligation owed her
How do the rights of third party beneficiaries affect rescission?
Where rights of 3rd party beneficiary has already vested, a k will NOT be discharged by mutual rescission by promisor and promisee
What is the general requirement for rescission?
Both parties expressly agree - mutual (where one party rescinds, it is unilateral and unenforceable)
An agreement substituting a new k for an existing one. Takes effect immediately. Must be mutual assent. Consideration usually necessary (where each party has limited his right to enforce the original k). Not necessary where mod is only a correction or modification for sale of goods
Is consideration necessary for modification under the UCC?
No, modification is enforceable if made in good faith even without consideration
Agreement to accept a stated performance in satisfaction of an existing duty; performance of the accord
Accord extinguishes an existing obligation only when an accord is satisfied. B can sue for original and new agreement
What are the requirements for an accord?
One party to a k agrees to accept performance different from what originally promised. Requires consideration (if less than that of original k, sufficient that it is of different type or is to be paid to a third party)
What is the effect of an accord on a contractual duty?
Does not discharge. Merely suspends the other party's right to enforce it. Performance of the accord (satisfaction) discharges the accord and original debt
Is partial payment of the original debt valid consideration?
Yes, if made in good faith and bona fide dispute as to the claim
An agreement that substitutes a new party for an existing party. If agreed to substitution, gave up rights against existing party
What are the steps to novation?
1. previous valid k
4. valid new k
What are other ways to discharge performance?
1. Cancellation of original agreement
9. failure of an express condition
What are some later unforeseen events that would make performance impossible?
Seller's excuse; destruction of something necessary for performance; if not a merchant, under the risk of loss rule, not liable (risk remains on seller until seller tenders car); S excused if goods ID'd to the k are unexpectedly destroyed (impossible to deliver that particular good); if destroyed after tendered to B, can still pay, not excused; if good fungible, nothing distinctive, destruction does not excuse seller from performing; death or incapacity; supervening government regulation or order; frustration of purpose (B's remedy); failure of express condition
Is death or incapacity of a person essential to performance an excuse?
Unless some evidence that person who died has special skill or reputation, does not provide excuse
What are the requirements for the buyer's frustration of purpose excuse?
At time of k, knew what B's purpose was and (b) a later unforeseen event thwarted purpose (if just less profitable, not enough for frustration)
How does failure of an express condition excuse non-performance?
Express condition: k language that does not create an obligation, but limits obligations created by other k language (if, so long as, provided). Strict compliance required.
How do we decide whether a satisfaction clause will excuse non-performance?
Apply an objective (reasonable person) standard unless the k deals with art, aesthetics or matters of personal taste
How do we decide whether conditions precedent, concurrent, or subsequent excuse non-performance?
Ex: if it rains on July 4 (precedent) - condition has to be fulfilled before you're obligated
Ex: until the Mets win the WS (subsequent) - performance comes first, and then the occurrence of the condition cuts it off
What is the general rule for an express condition?
Occurrence of a condition may be excused by the later action (or inaction) of the person who is protected by the condition. Failure to cooperate may excuse the occurence of a condition - can lose the protection of the condition. Person may be estopped from insisting that a condition occur (requires later statement by the protected party and reliance by the other party on that statement). Not fair to let one insist on the absence of something and reliance by other party
What is an in rem remedy?
P seeks the actual thing itself, not monetary damages
What are the kinds of in rem remedies?
Specific performance, right of reclamation, entrustment, right to request assurance,
What is specific performance of a k?
An equitable remedy, only available if monetary damages are clearly inadequate to compensate the injured party. RP is viewed as unique, so specific performance is available. For sale of goods, SP available only if the goods are unique (work of art, antique, custom-made). For sale of services, not entitled to get specific performance of a sale of services (but can seek injunction to bar employee from working for competitor)
What is the seller's right of reclamation?
Art. 2: An unpaid seller has no right to claim the goods from a buyer unless buyer was insolvent when he received the goods and seller makes a demand within 10 days thereafter
When does the 10 day period for right of reclamation start to run?
On the date the buyer received the goods
Does the seller have any right to get the goods back from a third party?
What is the remedy of entrustment?
Art. 2: an entrusting owner has no rights against a BFP. Only right is to sue for conversion if place gave your item to a BFP.
What is the right to request assurance?
Art. 2: party with reasonable grounds for insecurity may request adequate assurance from the other party. Can request IN WRITING that seller give him adequate assurance about the item. If S fails to provide adequate assurance, B can treat this as repudiation of k
Is there a caveat to the right to request assurance?
Can't use insecurity to get the other party to rewrite the k, nor can you demand a particular kind of assurance - just entitled to adequate assurance
What is the general principle behind monetary damages?
We are only trying to compensate the injured party, not punish the breaching party
Can we get punitive damages for k breach?
Not awarded for breach of k because the purpose of k damages is to compensate, not punish
LDC in the k - valid if damages were difficult to estimate at the time of k and the clause is a reasonable forecast of the probable damages. Look for flexibility (per diem basis, graduated in some way). Fixed figures usually not valid