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NeCede's

Maxim 6.3.4

From a bare agreement without consideration, no action arises.

Ex nudo pacto non oritur actio.

Source: Bracton, fol. 99; Plowd. 305; Fleta, lib. 2, c. 56, s. 3; 2 Bl. Comm. 445; Jackson 246; Weisman, 5m Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

No obligation is created where nothing of value passes between the parties — consideration is the life of a contract.

Where this applies

  • My friend promised to give me $500 but now refuses — can I sue?
  • Someone promised to do free work for me but backed out — is there a legal obligation?

Topics

Contracts

Legal domains

contract

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 6.3.4 — From a bare agreement without consideration, no action arises. — Bracton, fol. 99; Plowd. 305; Fleta, lib. 2, c. 56, s. 3; 2 Bl. Comm. 445; Jackson 246; Weisman, 5m (Ex nudo pacto non oritur actio.)

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