What's a Unilateral Contract Definition? [Explained]

what is a definition of a unilateral contract

What's a Unilateral Contract Definition? [Explained]

A legally binding agreement where one party makes a promise in exchange for another party’s performance. The offeror commits to fulfilling their promise only if the offeree completes a specific act. For instance, an offer to pay a reward for finding a lost item constitutes such an agreement; payment is only triggered upon the item’s retrieval.

This type of agreement is significant because acceptance is demonstrated through action, not merely a promise to act. This characteristic distinguishes it from other contractual forms and allows for flexibility, particularly in situations where a broad audience might be capable of fulfilling the required performance. Historically, these agreements have been used in situations involving public offers and rewards, reflecting a reliance on tangible results rather than preliminary assurances.

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