General assumpsit refers to a legal action based on an implied promise to pay a debt. The term "assumpsit" originates from Latin, meaning "he undertook." In this context, general assumpsit is used when a defendant fails to fulfill an implied obligation to pay a debt owed to the plaintiff. This type of action is commonly seen in civil courts and is also known as common assumpsit or indebitatus assumpsit.
General assumpsit is primarily used in civil law, particularly in cases involving contracts and debts. It allows a plaintiff to seek compensation when a defendant breaches an implied promise that arises from a contractual relationship or a completed transaction. Users can often manage these types of claims using legal templates provided by services like US Legal Forms, which offer guidance on drafting necessary documents.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A contractor completes work for a homeowner but is not paid. The contractor can file a general assumpsit action to recover the unpaid amount, arguing that the homeowner impliedly promised to pay upon completion of the work.
Example 2: A person lends money to a friend, expecting repayment. If the friend fails to repay the loan, the lender may initiate a general assumpsit claim for the amount owed. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| California | Allows for recovery of certain costs in addition to the debt. |
| New York | Requires a clear demonstration of the implied promise. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Specific Assumpsit | Action based on a specific promise or agreement. | General assumpsit deals with implied promises, while specific assumpsit involves explicit agreements. |
| Breach of Contract | Failure to fulfill the terms of a contract. | General assumpsit can apply even when no formal contract exists, based on implied obligations. |
If you believe you have a claim for general assumpsit, consider the following steps:
If your case is complex, seeking professional legal help is advisable.
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It is a legal action based on an implied promise to pay a debt.