The term illusory refers to a promise or commitment that is not legally binding or meaningful. This occurs when the person making the promise has the ability to avoid fulfilling it, rendering the commitment essentially deceptive or based on an illusion. In legal contexts, an illusory promise does not create enforceable obligations because it lacks the necessary elements of a valid contract.
In legal practice, the term "illusory" is often encountered in contract law. It is crucial to understand that a promise must be clear and binding to be enforceable. Illusory promises can arise in various legal areas, including:
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Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples of illusory promises:
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Conditional promise | A promise that is contingent upon a specific event occurring. | Unlike an illusory promise, a conditional promise can create enforceable obligations if the condition is met. |
| Enforceable contract | A legally binding agreement that can be upheld in court. | An enforceable contract has clear obligations, unlike an illusory promise. |
If you believe you are dealing with an illusory promise, consider the following steps:
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Area | Contract Law |
| Typical Issues | Contract disputes, employment agreements |
| Enforceability | Not enforceable |
An illusory promise is a commitment that does not create any legal obligation, allowing the promisor to avoid fulfilling it.