Maxim 6.3.5
A naked contract exists where there is no consideration besides the agreement itself; but where there is consideration, an obligation is created and an action lies.
Nudum pactum est ubi nulla subest causa praeter conventionem; sed ubi subest causa, fit obligatio, et parit actionem.
Source: Plowd. 309; Broom, Max. 745, 750; Dig. 2, 14, 7, 4; 2 Bl. Comm. 445; Jackson 721; Weisman, 24bb
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
The dividing line between an enforceable contract and a mere promise is consideration — something of value exchanged. Without it, no court will compel performance.
Where this applies
- I promised to pay my neighbor for mowing my lawn — that's a real contract because there's consideration.
- A handshake deal where both sides give something of value is enforceable.
Topics
Legal domains
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 6.3.5 — A naked contract exists where there is no consideration besides the agreement itself; but where there is consideration, an obligation is created and an action lies. — Plowd. 309; Broom, Max. 745, 750; Dig. 2, 14, 7, 4; 2 Bl. Comm. 445; Jackson 721; Weisman, 24bb (Nudum pactum est ubi nulla subest causa praeter conventionem; sed ubi subest causa, fit obligatio, et parit actionem.)
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