Doctrine of Frustration

/ˈdɒktrɪn əv frʌˈstreɪʃən/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A legal principle excusing contractual obligations when an unforeseen event renders performance impossible or radically different from what was agreed.
    The doctrine of frustration was invoked when the contract became impossible to perform after the natural disaster.

Forms

  • doctrine of frustration
  • doctrine of frustrations

Commentary

This doctrine is narrowly construed to avoid undermining contractual certainty; it requires an unforeseen, unavoidable event not caused by either party.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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