Modules 1-4 - K formation Flashcards
How can a bilateral contract be accepted?
any reasonable way; mostly by beginning performance, but must be unequivocal
How can a unilateral contract be accepted?
accepted by performance
Unilateral k formation
(1) When the offeror clearly (unambiguously) indicates that completion of performance is the only manner of acceptance; and
(2) where there is an offer to the public, such as a reward offer
Void contracts
one that is totally without any legal effect from the beginning; cannot be enforced by either party
Voidable contracts
one that one or both parties may elect to avoid, such as raising a defense that makes it voidable (ex. infancy, mental illness)
Unenforceable contracts
otherwise valid, but isnt enforceable due to a defense, such as SOL or SOF
What law controls sale of goods?
UCC Article 2
What law controls service contracts?
Common law
What is a good?
all things movable at the time they are identified as the items to be sold under the k; does NOT apply to intangibles or real estate
ex. cars, horses, hamburgers
What is a merchant?
one who regularly deals in goods of the kind sold or who otherwise by their profession holds themselves out as having special knowledge or skills as to the practices of the goods involved
Who can be a merchant under UCC Article 2?
almost anyone with regard to a provision dealing with general business practices
What is the narrow rule for who can be a merchant under UCC Article 2?
requires a person to be a merchant with respect to goods of the kind involved in the subject transaction (ex. implied warranty of merchantability)
What if a contract involves a mixed sale of goods and services?
Look at the predominant purpose to see what law controls
What is the question that must be asked with regard to mutual assent?
Did words or conduct manifest a present intention to enter into a contract?
Definition of offer
For a communication to be an offer, it must create a REASONABLE EXPECTATION in the offeree that the offeror is willing to enter into a contract on the basis of the offered terms
To determine if a communication creates a reasonable expectation/offer, ask 3 questions!!!!!
(1) Was there an expression of a PROMISE, UNDERTAKING, OR COMMITMENT to enter into a k?
(2) Were there CERTAINTY AND DEFINITENESS in the essential terms?
(3) Was there COMMUNICATION of the above to the offeree?
Standard for evaluating promises
objective reasonable person standard
Are negotiations an offer?
general rule is NO
What will the court look at to determine if an offer was made?
basically all surrounding circumstances of the communication, as well as prior relationship and practice of parties involved (if any)
Use of broad communications media and/or advertisements…
likely NOT an offer, more like solicitations of offers
Ex. The Astros advertise tickets in the NY Post: “Incredible offer! Ticket special for $19.” This is just a SOLICITATION for offers, not a valid offer (if contained quantity term, might be offer)
An offer must be ___________ and __________ in its terms.
definite; certain
To be considered an offer, a statement must _____________ ______________ the offeree or a class to which they belong to justify the inference that the offeror intended to create a power of acceptance.
sufficiently identify
With regard to the subject matter of an offer, it must be…..
certain; includes PRICE and QUANTITY TERM (UCC Article 2)
Offer: Real estate transactions
(1) Identify land (with particularity); AND
(2) price terms