What is a Legal Object in a Contract?
When entering into a contract, it’s important to understand the concept of a legal object. A legal object refers to the purpose, aim, or consideration of a contract. Essentially, it’s what the parties to the contract are agreeing to do, or not to do.
For a contract to be legally enforceable, it must have a lawful object. In other words, the purpose of the contract must not be illegal, immoral, or against public policy. If the object of the contract is illegal, the contract is said to be void or unenforceable.
Examples of contracts with unlawful objects include contracts for illegal activities, such as drug trafficking or prostitution. Contracts that are against public policy could include contracts that restrict a person’s right to work or marry. Immoral contracts could include contracts that involve sexual favors or gambling.
On the other hand, contracts with legal objects are enforceable. For example, a contract to purchase a car in exchange for payment is a legal contract. The object of the contract is the sale of the car and the payment of the purchase price.
It’s important to note that not all contracts need to have a monetary value to be legally enforceable. Contracts that involve promises or agreements to do something – such as performing a service or providing goods – can also have a legal object.
In addition, contracts can also have multiple objects. For example, a contract for the sale of a car may also include clauses on the delivery of the car, the warranty, and the payment terms.
In conclusion, a legal object in a contract refers to the purpose, aim, or consideration of the contract. For a contract to be enforceable, it must have a lawful object. It’s important to ensure that the object of the contract is legal and not against public policy to avoid the risk of an unenforceable contract.