Glossary
Explore our comprehensive glossary to demystify complex contract jargon. Whether you're a legal professional or simply curious about the law, our glossary offers clarity and understanding in an accessible format.
Agreement
Is a mutual assent between two or more parties to do or abstain from doing something. Moreover, it is a meeting of minds with a common intention with the understanding and acceptance of reciprocal legal rights and duties.
Agreements are often confused with contracts, nevertheless, an agreement has a wider meaning than a contract.
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to a process of resolving disputes outside the court system. ADR methods include mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and conciliation. The goal of ADR is to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively, often resulting in cost savings and preserving relationships between parties.
In contract management, ADR can be a useful tool for resolving disputes that may arise during the contract lifecycle, particularly in complex or long-term contracts. Including an ADR clause in a contract can also help parties avoid the time and expense of going through the court system if a dispute does occur.
Amendments
An amendment is an addition, deletion, or alteration made to a constitution, statute, law, pleading, or contract. It comes from the verb to amend, which means to change for the better, and there are formal steps to follow to make it valid.
In contract law, amendments provide one or more of the parties involved in an agreement to revisit or renegotiate the terms agreed upon, introducing changes to an existing contract.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a consensual and neutral procedure in which a dispute is submitted, by the parties of an agreement, to an independent third party who makes a binding decision without going to court.
The third-party acting as an arbitrator must be agreed upon by both sides. Contracts often include arbitration clauses nominating an arbitrator in advance.
Assignment
This term refers to the action by a person to transfer rights, benefits, or property to another person. The one who transfers his rights (or benefits or properties) is the "assignor" and the one who receives them is the "assignee".
Breach of contract
A breach of contract is a violation of the terms and conditions of a binding agreement, that is, of the contractual obligations that the parties involved agreed upon. In the event of a breach of contract, the non-breaching party may have a right to damages, specific performance, or termination of the agreement.
Business process automation
Business process automation (BPA) is the use of technology to automate repetitive or manual tasks in a business process. BPA can increase efficiency and productivity, reduce errors, and improve compliance with regulations.
In contract management, BPA can automate tasks such as contract creation, approval workflows, and contract renewals. BPA can also help contract managers track and monitor key contract metrics, such as contract expiration dates and contract performance. By automating these processes, contract managers can reduce the risk of errors and ensure that contracts are managed effectively and efficiently.
Caveat emptor
Caveat emptor is a Latin term that means "let the buyer beware". It is a principle that places the responsibility on the buyer to do their due diligence and ensure that they are aware of any defects or problems with a product or service before making a purchase.
In contract management, the principle of caveat emptor can apply to the negotiation and drafting of contracts. Both parties are responsible for ensuring that the terms of the contract are clear, accurate, and meet their needs. However, the principle of caveat emptor does not apply in situations where one party has intentionally concealed information or acted fraudulently.
Clause
A clause is a section of a contract that specifies a particular aspect of the agreement between the parties. Clauses can cover a wide range of topics, such as payment terms, warranties, and dispute resolution.
In contract management, clauses are carefully drafted to ensure that the contract accurately reflects the agreement between the parties and provides clear guidance in case of disputes. Clauses can also be used to allocate risk and responsibilities between the parties and to provide remedies in case of a breach.
Clause library
Is a repository filled with a collection of preconstructed and preapproved clauses used by an organization in the drafting of contracts. This tool allows you to reduce time and human drafting risks. Furthermore, it helps to optimize the performance of legal tasks in an organization.
CLM
CLM is the acronym for "Contract Lifecycle Management", and is the process of digital tracking and managing every aspect of a contract through its completion.
This type of management solution can help parties' agreement to ensure compliance, mitigate unwanted risks, create a contract repository with the possibility of searching and retrieving information easily, and keep you updated on contractor milestone dates, along with others.
Conditional logic
Conditional logic refers to a system of rules that determine how a computer program or software application responds to different inputs or conditions.
In contract management, conditional logic can be used to automate contract processes and workflows. For example, if a contract is set to automatically renew unless one of the parties provides notice to terminate, conditional logic can be used to trigger the renewal or termination process based on the input received.
By using conditional logic, contract managers can ensure that contracts are managed efficiently and accurately.
Consideration
Consideration is the benefit expected by the parties to a contract, and what each party to the contract gives up or promises to do, to form the contract. This is one of the most important elements of a contract, and without which a contract cannot be enforceable.
Contract AI
Is the use of text-based machine learning on contracts, often used to assist in the management and review of legal agreements. Contract AI takes the natural language in agreements and transforms it into structured data and highlights specific information like governing law.
In addition, this software can help you with other AI solutions, such as contract drafting.
Contract automation
Contract automation refers to the use of technology to automate contract processes, such as contract creation, negotiation, and execution. Contract automation can increase efficiency, reduce errors, and improve compliance with regulations.
In contract management, contract automation can be used to create templates for frequently used contract types, streamline the approval process, and reduce the time and effort required to manage contracts.
Contract lifecycle
The contract lifecycle refers to the various stages of a contract, from the initial request for a contract through to contract renewal or termination. The contract lifecycle typically includes drafting, negotiation, execution, monitoring, and closeout. Effective contract management requires a deep understanding of the contract lifecycle and the ability to manage contracts at each stage of the process.
Contract management
Contract management refers to the process of managing contracts throughout their lifecycle. Effective contract management requires a range of skills, including negotiation, risk management, and legal knowledge.
The goal is to ensure that contracts are managed efficiently and effectively and that the parties' obligations and expectations are met.
Contract management system
A contract management system (CMS) is a software solution that helps organizations manage their contracts throughout the entire contract lifecycle. The system typically includes features for creating, negotiating, storing, and tracking contracts, as well as automating key tasks such as renewal and compliance management.
For example, a company might use a contract management system to keep track of all its supplier contracts. The system would allow them to store all contract documents in one place, set reminders for key contract dates such as renewal and termination, and provide visibility into contract performance metrics such as spend and compliance. With a contract management system, the company could ensure that all contracts are up-to-date and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, minimizing the risk of any contract-related issues.
Contract redlines
Contract redlines refer to the process of marking up a contract with proposed changes or modifications. Redlining can be done manually, by highlighting or underlining text, or electronically, by using track changes in a word processing program. Redlining is an important aspect of contract negotiation, as it allows parties to suggest changes and ensure that the final contract accurately reflects their agreement.
In contract management, redlining can help contract managers track proposed changes and ensure that they are incorporated into the final contract.
Contract Repository
A Contract Repository is a centralized database or storage system that is used to store and manage contracts and their associated documentation. This system helps organizations to keep track of their contractual obligations, manage negotiations, and store information related to contracts in a secure and organized manner.
In the context of Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM), a Contract Repository serves as an integral component to automate and streamline the end-to-end contract management process. The Contract Repository in CLM provides organizations with a single source of truth for all contract-related information, enabling them to make informed decisions, reduce manual errors, and ensure compliance.
Contract workflow
A contract workflow refers to the steps or processes that are required to complete a contract. A contract workflow can include tasks such as contract creation, negotiation, approval, execution, and monitoring. Effective contract workflows are essential for ensuring that contracts are managed efficiently and effectively.
Counterparty
Counterparty means a party to a contract. It usually refers to the entity with whom one negotiates on a given agreement, and it can refer to either party or both, depending on context. Any legal entity can be a counterparty. Usually, to say that there are counterparties to an arrangement means that there is some potential for conflict between them.
Damages
Damages are legal remedies for breach of contract that provide a non-breaching party with monetary awards. This compensation serves to restore the non-breaching party to the position they would have been in if the other party had performed as promised. If another type of remedy is wanted but cannot be or is not given by the court, then damages will be awarded instead.
Deliverables
Deliverables refer to the products, services, or other items that are required to be provided under a contract. Deliverables are often specified in the contract itself and may include deadlines, quality standards, and other requirements.
In contracts, it is essential to monitor and track deliverables to ensure that they are delivered on time and meet the required standards. Effective management of deliverables can help to reduce the risk of disputes and ensure that both parties are satisfied with the outcome of the contract.
Digital contracting
Digital contracting refers to the process of creating, negotiating, and executing contracts using digital technologies. Digital contracting can offer many benefits, such as increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved compliance with regulations.
Document automation
Document automation refers to the use of technology to automatically create and generate documents. In contract management, document automation can be used to create contract templates, automate the contract creation process, and reduce the time and effort required to manage contracts.
Document management system
A document management system is a software application that is used to manage documents throughout their lifecycle. In contract management, document management systems can be used to store, track, and manage contract documents. Effective document management is essential for ensuring that contracts are managed efficiently and effectively.
Document Repository
A Document Repository is a centralized storage system designed to store, manage, and track various types of documents and their associated metadata. It provides a secure and organized way to access and share documents within an organization.
In the context of Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM), a Document Repository serves as a critical component to support the creation, negotiation, execution, and maintenance of contracts. The Document Repository in CLM helps organizations to securely store and manage contract-related documents, streamline the contract review and approval process, and ensure the availability of up-to-date information to support compliance and decision-making.
By using a Document Repository in CLM, organizations can increase efficiency and reduce manual errors in the contract management process.
Entire agreement
An entire agreement clause states that the contract that parties have signed constitutes the whole agreement between them. This clause seeks to prevent parties from relying on preceding agreements or negotiations that have not been outlined in the contract.
eSignature
Is the abbreviation for electronic signature. This concept refers to the legal and efficient method that allows you to replace a handwritten signature and sign binding contracts without printing paper. For this reason, it helps you to save a lot of time and help the environment.
Exemption Clause
An Exemption Clause, also known as a Limitation of Liability Clause, is a provision in a contract that exempts or limits one or both parties' liability in the event of a breach of contract or other specified circumstances. In many cases, the clause seeks to limit a party's exposure to claims for loss of profits or other consequential damages.
Exemption Clauses are often used in contracts to set clear expectations and to allocate risk between parties. These clauses are typically included to protect a party from potential harm, financial loss, or liability that may arise during the performance of the contract. Exemption Clauses are a common feature of commercial contracts, particularly in industries such as construction, technology, and manufacturing.
The effectiveness of an Exemption Clause can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific terms of the contract, so it's important for parties to seek legal advice before relying on such clauses.
Force majeure
Force Majeure is French for "greater force" and refers to events that occur by an "act of God", for which neither party can be held responsible. It's a provision included in contracts to remove liability for failure to perform and is sometimes called excused performance.
This provision is triggered in cases whereby events that are beyond a party's reasonable control (such as unforeseeable and unavoidable catastrophes) preventing the parties involved in a contract from fulfilling their obligations. Examples of events and situations that usually fall under Force Majeure are: natural disasters, wars, acts of terrorism, diseases, epidemics, pandemics, among others.
Forum selection clause
A forum selection clause is a provision in a contract that determines the jurisdiction or location where any legal disputes that arise from the contract will be heard. The clause specifies the court or tribunal that has jurisdiction to hear the dispute, and may also indicate a specific venue.
Forum selection clauses are important because they provide certainty and predictability for parties to the contract, as well as reduce the risk of expensive and protracted legal battles in multiple jurisdictions. However, forum selection clauses may also be challenged by the parties if they believe that the jurisdiction or venue selected is unfair or inconvenient.
Frustration of contract
Frustration of contract refers to a situation where a contract becomes impossible or impracticable to perform due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, the contract may be considered frustrated and may be terminated. Frustration of contract is a common issue in long-term contracts, where unforeseen events can make it difficult or impossible to fulfill the terms of the contract.
Governing law
Also known as Choice of Law Provision, this is a contractual provision that determines which laws may apply in the event of a dispute between the parties to a contract. The clause ensures certainty regarding the laws that will be applied to interpret and enforce the terms of the agreement.
Implied terms
Implied terms are terms that are not expressly stated in a contract, but are instead inferred by the court or implied by law. These terms are necessary for giving business efficacy to the contract, and are therefore deemed to be included even if they are not expressly stated.
For example, if a person hires a contractor to build a house, there is an implied term that the work will be carried out with reasonable care and skill. This means that even if this term is not expressly stated in the contract, it is still an implied term because it is necessary for the contract to have business efficacy. Similarly, there is an implied term in contracts for the sale of goods that the goods will be of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose. These terms are implied by law, and are necessary to protect the interests of the parties involved.
Another example is, if a company contracts with a software vendor to purchase a new system, there may be an implied term that the vendor will provide ongoing support and maintenance for the system. This term may not be expressly stated in the contract, but it is necessary for the contract to function effectively.
Indemnity
An Indemnity clause serves to protect one party from harm or loss where such harm or loss is attributable to another party. The clause has the effect of transferring liability to the party causing the harm.
The clause may apply, for example, where a software developer may sell a software license to a customer. However, the software contains intellectual property owned by another company and that company brings a lawsuit against the customer for breach of their property rights. In this case, the customer can demand that the developer defend the customer against any claim and pay for any losses it incurs.
Injunction
An injunction is a court order requiring a party to do or abstain from doing some specific action. It is a type of remedy granted by courts to maintain or change some circumstances that affect someone.
If a party fails to comply with an injunction, could make them face criminal or civil penalties.
Insolvency
Insolvency refers to a situation where an individual or organization is unable to pay their debts as they become due. In contract management, insolvency can be a significant risk, particularly when dealing with long-term contracts. Including provisions in contracts that address insolvency can help to reduce the risk of financial losses and ensure that parties are protected in case of insolvency.
Integration
Integration refers to the process of combining two or more systems or applications to work together seamlessly. In contract management, integration can be used to connect different contract management systems, such as document management systems and workflow automation tools. Effective integration can improve the efficiency of contract management and reduce the risk of errors and delays.
Intellectual property rights (IPR)
Intellectual property rights are the legal rights relating to the ownership of inventions, designs, processes, techniques, drawings, specifications, technical information and 'know-how', copyright, patents, and trademarks.
Joint and several liability
Joint and several liability is a legal concept that allows multiple parties to be held jointly and individually responsible for fulfilling the obligations of a contract. In other words, each party can be held liable for the entire amount of damages or losses that result from a breach of contract, regardless of their individual level of fault.
This is an important consideration, particularly when dealing with contracts that involve multiple parties. Understanding the obligations and potential liability of each party is crucial for effective contract management and risk mitigation.
Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction refers to the power or authority to interpret and apply the law, as well as the limits (for example, territory) within such authority may be exercised. Jurisdiction is established by the Constitution, Federal, and State law. It determines whether the court or tribunal has authority over the parties, the subject matter, and judgment sought.
Legal contract management software
Legal contract management software is a software application designed to help organizations manage the entire lifecycle of contracts, from creation and negotiation to renewal and termination. Legal contract management software can provide a wide range of features and functionalities, such as contract drafting, automated workflows, contract tracking and reporting, and e-signature capabilities.
Effective use of contract management software can help organizations streamline their contract management processes, reduce errors and risk, and improve compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Legally binding eSignature
A legally binding e-signature is an electronic signature that is legally recognized and enforceable under applicable laws and regulations. E-signatures can be used to sign contracts and other legal documents, and are often considered to be more efficient and secure than traditional paper-based signatures.
In contract management, e-signatures can be used to streamline the contract execution process and reduce the time and effort required to manage contracts.
Liability
Liability in contracts refers to the legal responsibility that a party has to fulfill its obligations and to pay damages or compensation in the event of a breach of contract.
In a contract, parties agree to specific terms and conditions, and liability is the responsibility that each party has to fulfill its obligations under those terms. If one party fails to fulfill its obligations, it may be held liable for the consequences of that failure, which can include financial damages, compensation, or performance of specific actions.
Liability in contracts can be limited or excluded by the terms of the agreement, but it's important to note that some types of liability, such as liability for fraud or intentional misconduct, cannot be excluded by contract. It's essential for parties to consider and understand their liabilities before entering into a contract.
Limitation Clause
A Limitation Clause in contracts is a provision that restricts or limits a party's rights, responsibilities, or liabilities in specific circumstances. These clauses are often included in contracts to set clear expectations and allocate risk between parties.
Limitation Clauses can be used to limit the time period in which a party can bring legal action, limit the amount of damages that can be claimed, or restrict the types of claims that can be made. These clauses are a common feature in commercial contracts, particularly in industries such as construction, technology, and manufacturing.
The effectiveness of a Limitation Clause can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific terms of the contract, so it's important for parties to seek legal advice before relying on such clauses. It's essential for parties to consider and understand the limitations imposed by a Limitation Clause before entering into a contract.
Limitation of Liability
The limitation of liability is a contractual provision to reduce or exclude the types and amounts of damages one party may claim from another party relating to non-performance or default.
This clause may apply to the entire contract or may be limited to only certain breaches or failures, depending on the parties agreement, and the specific words of the terms and conditions.
Liquidated damages
Liquidated damages refer to a predetermined amount of damages that will be paid by one party to another in the event of a breach of contract. Liquidated damages are often specified in contracts to provide a measure of predictability and certainty in the event of a breach.
Litigation
Litigation is a legal process in which parties take their disputes to court for resolution. This can include disputes over contract terms, personal injury, property disputes, and a wide range of other legal issues. The litigation process typically begins with the filing of a lawsuit and can involve various steps, such as discovery, pre-trial motions, and trial.
Litigation is often seen as a last resort for resolving disputes, as it can be time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining for all parties involved. The outcome of a lawsuit is determined by a judge or a jury and can result in a monetary award, an injunction, or a declaratory judgment. Litigation is an important component of the legal system and provides a mechanism for parties to resolve disputes and enforce their rights.
Mala fide
Mala fide is a legal term used to describe conduct that is done in bad faith. In contracts, mala fide refers to actions taken by a party that are intentionally deceitful, fraudulent, or malicious, and that breach the trust and obligations inherent in the contract.
Mala fide conduct can include intentional breaches of contract, misrepresentation of facts, or the concealment of material information. This type of conduct can result in significant legal consequences, including damages, rescission of the contract, and even criminal charges.
In contracts, it's important for parties to act in good faith and to deal honestly and transparently with one another, as mala fide conduct can significantly undermine the validity and enforceability of the contract.
Material breach
Is a failure to perform the contract by either party that deeply affects the contract's heart and makes it irreparably broken. On the other hand, a non-material beach allows parties to continue the contract's performance because the essence of the contract is intact.
If a material breach of the contract takes place, the affected party can end the agreement and go to court to request damages caused by the breach.
Mediation
Mediation is a process in which an impartial third-party mediator helps parties resolve their disputes outside of court. In contracts, mediation can be a useful tool for resolving disputes that arise between parties to a contract.
During mediation, the parties meet with the mediator to discuss the dispute and work towards a mutually acceptable resolution. The mediator facilitates communication, promotes understanding, and helps the parties identify potential solutions.
Unlike litigation, mediation is typically less formal, less expensive, and quicker, and it allows the parties to have more control over the outcome of the dispute. Mediation is often used as an alternative to traditional legal processes, and it's often required as a prerequisite to filing a lawsuit in some jurisdictions. In contracts, mediation can be a valuable tool for resolving disputes in a mutually beneficial manner, and it can help to preserve the ongoing relationship between the parties.
Misrepresentation
Misrepresentation is a false statement made by one party to another with the intention of inducing that party to enter into a contract. In contracts, misrepresentation can occur when a party makes a false statement of fact that is material to the agreement and that influences the other party's decision to enter into the contract.
Misrepresentations can be made orally, in writing, or through conduct, and they can have significant legal consequences. If a party can prove that a misrepresentation was made, they may be entitled to rescission of the contract, damages, or specific performance. Misrepresentations can also give rise to criminal liability in some cases.
In contracts, it's important for parties to act in good faith and to provide accurate and complete information to one another. Misrepresentation can seriously undermine the validity and enforceability of a contract, so it's essential for parties to be mindful of their representations and obligations under the agreement.
Negotiation
Negotiation is the process of discussing and reaching an agreement on the terms of a contract between two or more parties. Effective negotiation skills are essential for successful contract management, as they can help to ensure that all parties' needs and interests are addressed and that the final contract accurately reflects the parties' agreement.
Non-compete agreement
A non-compete agreement is a contract that prohibits one party from engaging in certain competitive activities for a specified period of time after the contract ends.
Non-compete agreements are often used in employment contracts to prevent employees from leaving a company and working for a competitor, and in business, contracts to prevent one party from competing with another. These agreements must be reasonable in scope, duration, and geographic area in order to be enforceable.
Novation
Novation refers to the process of replacing one party with a contract with another party. Novation can occur when a new party takes over the obligations of the original party, thereby releasing the original party from their obligations under the contract. In contract management, novation can be used to transfer contracts to new owners or to replace parties that are no longer able to fulfill their obligations.
Obligation
Obligation in contracts refers to the specific duties or responsibilities that a party is required to fulfill as part of a legally binding agreement. In a contract, parties agree to specific terms and conditions, and each party has an obligation to perform its responsibilities under those terms.
Obligations can include providing goods or services, making payments, following specific procedures, or adhering to agreed-upon deadlines. If a party fails to fulfill its obligations, it may be in breach of the contract and be subject to legal consequences, such as damages or compensation.
Obligations in contracts are an essential element of the agreement and should be clearly defined and understood by both parties before entering into the contract.
Obligation management
This term refers to the process of cataloging and tracking obligations and due dates in a contract. It helps you to ensure fulfillment of obligations in the right terms and time, and to avoid failures of performance contracts. For this reason, it is a good tool to be sure that you are complying with efficiently the terms of a contract.
Option
An option is a contract in which one party has the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset or other item at a predetermined price within a specified period of time. Options are commonly used in financial markets, but can also be used in other types of contracts. Options provide flexibility and risk management for the parties involved, allowing them to take advantage of favorable market conditions or hedge against potential losses.
Parol evidence rule
The parol evidence rule is a principle of contract law that restricts the introduction of oral or written evidence outside the written contract itself. Under this rule, if the terms of the contract are clear and unambiguous, extrinsic evidence such as oral agreements or previous negotiations cannot be used to vary or contradict the terms of the contract. The rule is designed to provide certainty and predictability in contractual relationships, but it may be subject to exceptions in certain circumstances.
Plain language contracts
Plain language contracts are contracts that are written in clear, concise and easily understandable language. Plain language contracts can help to reduce confusion and misunderstandings between parties and can make it easier to manage contracts effectively. The use of plain language contracts can help to reduce the risk of disputes and improve compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Recitals
Recitals refer to the introductory clauses of a contract that provide background information and context for the agreement. Recitals can include information such as the parties' names and addresses, the purpose of the contract, and any relevant legal or regulatory requirements. The use of clear and accurate recitals can help to ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of the purpose and scope of the contract.
Remedies
A remedy in law refers to the means by which someone who has been wronged can seek justice and be compensated for the harm. Remedies include the right to compensation, specific performance, injunction, and other equitable remedies.
Representations
Is a statement of fact, circumstance, or an intention, regularly made during negotiations by one of the contract's parties to another. Representations may induce the receiving party to enter into a contract.
Furthermore, either party can claim the remedy called "misrepresentation" in case of a false representation has been made.
Severability
This term refers to a type of boilerplate provision that states that each clause is independent of the others. It allows the contract remains valid in case a court invalidates any of the clauses.
Severability clause
A severability clause is a provision in a contract that states that if any part of the contract is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of the contract will remain in effect. Severability clauses are important because they help to ensure that the parties' intentions are carried out even if one or more parts of the contract are unenforceable.
Signatory
A signatory is a person or organization that signs a contract or legal document. Signatories are typically identified in the contract itself and may include representatives of the parties or other authorized individuals. In contract management, understanding the role and authority of each signatory is crucial for ensuring that the contract is executed properly and that all parties are bound by its terms.
Specific performance
Specific performance is a legal remedy that requires a party to fulfill their contractual obligations rather than paying damages for breach of contract. This remedy is usually only available in cases where monetary damages would not be adequate compensation for the breach. Specific performance is most often used in contracts involving the sale of real estate or other unique assets, where it may be difficult to find a suitable replacement.
Statute of limitations
Statute of limitations refers to a legal time limit within which a legal claim or action must be brought. It establishes the time period during which a plaintiff can file a lawsuit. This time period is set by the law and varies depending on the type of claim or action. The statute of limitations begins to run when the cause of action accrues, meaning when the injury or harm occurred or was discovered. If a lawsuit is not filed within the time period set by the statute of limitations, the plaintiff's claim may be barred forever.
In the context of contracts, the statute of limitations applies to breach of contract claims. For example, if a party breaches a contract, the other party must file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations period, or the claim will be barred.
Term
A term in the context of contracts refers to the length of time that the contract will remain in effect. This can be a fixed term or an ongoing arrangement until one or both parties terminate the contract. Understanding the term of a contract is essential for effective contract management, as it determines the duration of obligations and responsibilities of each party. It also allows organizations to plan ahead and make decisions regarding the contract, such as renegotiation or renewal, as needed. Proper management of contract terms can help organizations to ensure that they are meeting their contractual obligations and avoiding disputes.
Termination for cause
Also called "Termination for Default", is a contract provision that allows a party to completely or partially terminate its rights and obligations in the event another party fails to compy with the terms of the contract.
Usually, contracts require the terminating party to identify to the other party the reasons for the "for cause" event, as well as to provide a period of time for the other party to cure the problem. If the other party fails to solve the problems within the given period of time, the harmed party has the right to terminate the agreement and/or recover damages.
Termination for convenience
This clause, sometimes called "Termination on Notice" allows one party to terminate the contract without the need to establish that the other party has not fulfilled the terms of the agreement. The party intending to terminate may do so because its interests or needs have changed. Typically, termination for convenience specifies a notice period informing the other party when the agreement will come to an end.
Unilateral contract
A unilateral contract is a type of contract in which one party makes a promise in exchange for the other party's performance. Unlike a bilateral contract, which requires both parties to make promises to each other, a unilateral contract only requires one party to make a promise. The other party is not obligated to do anything unless they choose to perform.
The classic example of a unilateral contract is a reward offered for the return of lost property. The person who loses the property promises to pay a reward to anyone who returns it. The person who finds the property is not obligated to return it, but if they do, they are entitled to receive the reward.
Unilateral contracts can also be found in employment contracts, where the employer promises to pay a bonus to an employee who achieves a certain goal.
Waiver
This term refers to the voluntary relinquishment or abandonment of a legal right, claim or advantage. The waiving party must have had knowledge of the existing right and the intention of forgoing it.
It also refers to the official document indicating by writing that someone has given up or waived a right or privilege.
Warranties
Warranties are promises made in a contract, but which are less than a condition. Failure of a warranty results in liability to pay damages but will not be a breach of contract unlike the failure of a condition, which does breach the contract.
Workflow automation
Workflow automation is the process of using technology to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks involved in contract management. In contract management, workflow automation can include automating tasks such as contract drafting, review and approval workflows, notifications and reminders, and contract tracking and reporting. Automating these tasks can help organizations to streamline their contract management processes, reduce errors, and improve efficiency. It can also help to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Workflow automation can be a powerful tool in contract management, as it can free up valuable time and resources, allowing organizations to focus on higher-level tasks and strategic initiatives. By automating routine tasks, organizations can reduce the risk of errors and delays, and improve overall contract management processes.