Communication & Revocation ðŽ
In the old days (and even now with emails), there is a time gap between sending and receiving. The law has specific rules for this gap.
1. Communication of Offer ðĪ
Complete when it comes to the knowledge of the offeree.
- Example: Letter posted on 1st, reaches on 3rd. Offer complete on 3rd.
2. Communication of Acceptance ðĨ
This is tricky. It has two timelines:
- As against the Proposer (Offeror): Complete when the letter is posted (put in transmission).
- Why? Because the Offeror loses control. He is bound now.
- As against the Acceptor (Offeree): Complete when the letter reaches the Proposer.
- Why? Because until then, the Acceptor can still call and cancel it.
3. Revocation (Cancellation) ðŦ
- Of Offer: Can be revoked any time before communication of acceptance is complete against the proposer (i.e., before letter is posted).
- Of Acceptance: Can be revoked any time before communication of acceptance is complete against the acceptor (i.e., before letter reaches).
1. A posts Offer"Reaches B. Offer Complete."
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2. B posts Acceptance"A is bound! (Contract born for A)."
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3. Acceptance reaches A"B is bound! (Contract born for B)."
Quiz Time! ðŊ
Test Your Knowledge
Question 1 of 5
1. Communication of offer is complete when:
ðĄ Final Wisdom: "Once the letter is in the box, the Offeror is trapped. But the Acceptor is free until the letter arrives. It's a weird asymmetry of law!" âïļ
Next up: Consideration - Something in return! ð°
