Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: hit and run statute
An agreement between two or more parties that creates obligations, which may or may not be enforceable by law, is called a contract. It can be a written document or just a verbal agreement. A contract is like a promise that if one party does not fulfill their obligations, the other party can take legal action. However, not all contracts are enforceable, and some are called agreements of imperfect obligation. This means that even though the parties agreed to something, the law cannot force them to fulfill their obligations.
An agreement of imperfect obligation is a type of contract that is not enforceable by law. It is a promise made between two or more parties that does not create a legal obligation.
For example, if two friends agree to meet for lunch next week, this is an agreement of imperfect obligation. If one friend fails to show up, the other friend cannot sue for breach of contract because there was no legal obligation to meet.
Another example is a promise to make a charitable donation. While the promise may be morally binding, it is not legally enforceable because there is no consideration given in exchange for the promise.
Overall, an agreement of imperfect obligation is a promise that is not legally binding and cannot be enforced by law.