Contracts

Contract law serves to define the various ways in which different entities enter into an agreement. From basic consideration principles of common law through the more detailed and intuitive conclusions of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), this course will examine the elements of a valid contract and the process for agreement as well as the different remedies available for breach of contract. The function of contracts in a free enterprise economy extend from legal theories that have developed over centuries and covers the evolution and application of common law doctrines and contract process including mutual assent, consideration, reliance, conditions, interpretation of contract language, performance and breach, and remedies. As one of the most prevalent areas of law, contract theory affects all aspects of every day life from the most simple to the most complex of agreements.

This course provides students with a general overview and understanding of the elements of a contractual relationship/agreement, the applicable laws related to contract negotiations and terms, and the remedies available if the agreement is breached.

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Write a generic contract
• Explain the contract agreement process
• Describe fraud as it relates to contracts
• Examine the remedies for breach of contract
• Determine damages available for breach of contract
• Examine the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)
• Distinguish between a UCC and common law contract
• Write a generic warranty form
• Examine legal issues with contracts
• Describe special contract forms
• Determine appropriate responses to ethical issues related to contract law