Constitutum: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning and Use

Definition & Meaning

In civil law, a constitutum refers to an agreement where one party agrees to pay an existing debt without any additional conditions imposed by either the debtor or a third party. This type of agreement is distinct from a stipulation for an existing debt, which may involve specific terms or conditions.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A person owes $5,000 to a creditor. They enter into a constitutum, agreeing to pay the full amount without any new terms. This agreement confirms the original debt.

Example 2: A business has an outstanding loan and agrees to continue payments under a constitutum, reaffirming their obligation without altering the loan terms. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Notes
California Recognizes constitutum in civil agreements but may require specific documentation for enforceability.
Texas Similar principles apply, but state laws may impose additional requirements for debt agreements.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Stipulation An agreement that includes specific terms or conditions for a debt. Stipulations impose additional requirements, while constitutum does not.
Debt Settlement An agreement to pay less than the full amount owed. Debt settlements often involve negotiation, unlike constitutum, which reaffirms the full debt.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation involving a constitutum, consider the following steps:

  • Review the existing debt and ensure all terms are clear.
  • Consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to draft your agreement.
  • If the situation is complex or involves significant sums, consult a legal professional for guidance.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies based on legal assistance.
  • Jurisdiction: Civil law jurisdictions.
  • Possible penalties: None for the agreement itself, but failure to comply may lead to legal action.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A constitutum is an agreement to pay an existing debt without imposing new conditions.