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Roscorla V Thomas
''Roscorla v Thomas'' is a notable case in English contract law which demonstrates that past conduct is not sufficient consideration to support a contract. Facts An agreement for the purchase of a horse had been completed between buyer and seller. Following the completion of the contract, the seller made a warranty that the horse was "free from vice". Upon delivery, it was discovered by the buyer that the horse was vicious in behaviour. The buyer consequently sued. Judgement Lord Denman CJ delivered the judgement of the Court. "''It may be taken as a general rule, subject to exceptions not applicable to this case, that the promise must be coextensive with the consideration... a consideration past and executed will support no other promise than such as would be implied by law.''" The Court found for the defendant because his promise was unsupported by consideration. The consideration for the soundness warranty had already been made through the original contract of sale ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
Consideration In English Law
Consideration is an English common law concept within the law of contract, and is a necessity for simple contracts (but not for special contracts by deed). The concept of consideration has been adopted by other common law jurisdictions, including the US. Consideration can be anything of value (such as any goods, money, services, or promises of any of these), which each party gives as a quid pro quo to support their side of the bargain. Mutual promises constitute consideration for each other. If only one party offers consideration, the agreement is a "bare promise" and is unenforceable. Value According to ''Currie v Misa'', consideration for a particular promise exists where some ''right'', ''interest'', ''profit'' or ''benefit'' accrues (''or will accrue'') to the promisor as a direct result of some ''forbearance'', ''detriment'', ''loss'' or ''responsibility'' that has been given, suffered or undertaken by the promisee. Forbearance to act amounts to consideration only if one is ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |