Contingent contracts are versatile and used in various situations where outcomes are uncertain. They provide a structured response to specific conditions, reducing risks for all parties involved.
A contingency contract is an agreement between a student and teacher which states behavioral or academic goals for the student and reinforcers or rewards that the student will receive contingent upon achievement of these goals.
A contingent contract is a legal agreement in which the terms and conditions only apply or take effect if a specific event occurs. Essentially, the parties involved agree to perform actions or obligations based on the occurrence or non-occurrence of a particular event in the future.
In the case of conditional contracts, conditions that need to be fulfilled are certain, i.e., bound to happen, which is not the case with contingent contracts, as such conditions may or may not happen.
Contingent contracts to do or not to do anything if an uncertain future event happens cannot be enforced by law unless and until that event has happened. If the event becomes impossible, such contracts become void.
When two parties legitimately disagree about future outcomes that affect their deal, they should be willing to bet on their beliefs by negotiating a contingent contract. Contingency contracts are common in M&A, professional athletics, and building projects.