The agreement states that if a certain event occurs, then one or both parties will take specific actions. Contingency agreements are often used to protect against financial loss or legal liability. However, not all contingency agreements are enforceable in court.
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.
A contingent contract will be deemed valid only if an event occurs or does not occur and it is collateral to the contract. The meaning of a contingent contract is that the conditions collateral to the contract must be certain to happen in the future.
The average contingency rate falls between 20-40%, with most lawyers charging around 33% to 35% of the total amount recovered in a case. The exact percentage can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer's experience, and the stage at which the case is resolved.
The contract is characterized as "contingent" because the terms are not final and are based on certain events or conditions occurring. A contingent contract can also be viewed as protection against a future change of plans.
Contingency Contract Examples If you fail to secure the financing within the stipulated period, either party may terminate the contract without any legal consequences. Another simple example is a child who agrees with their parent that they would receive a new bicycle if they receive an A in a specific class.