What Is a Contingency? A contingency is a potential occurrence of a negative event in the future, such as an economic recession, natural disaster, fraudulent activity, terrorist attack, or a pandemic.
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.
Therefore, all indemnity contracts, guarantee contracts as well as insurance contracts are contingent contracts as they are dependent on a future event.
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.
In a contingency contract, the task defines exactly what behavior a person must engage in to access the reward. It should include what needs to be done, who must do it, when it must be done and details with how it must be done. It should be very clear and specific for all parties.
Best practices for drafting a contingent contract #1 Define the conditions clearly to activate the contract obligations. #2 Include detailed descriptions of all parties' obligations. #3 Keep the contract simple to avoid misunderstandings. #4 Regularly update your contracts to keep them relevant and enforceable.
Decide how much, how often, and by whom rewards will be given. Be specific in identifying necessary criteria to obtain a reward. Remember to reward for small approximations when beginning a contingency contract. Include any mild punishment (e.g., loss of a privilege, time-out, etc.)