##  [Unilateral Contract](/unilateral-contract-0) 

 Definition

A civil-law concept defining a rule, doctrine, or procedural mechanism used to resolve private disputes. It applies when its legally specified conditions are satisfied and produces defined consequences in adjudication or settlement. It does not apply where required elements or prerequisites are not met. It materially affects rights, obligations, or available remedies in civil controversies. The concept is generally stable, though statutory and doctrinal refinements may occur over time.



 

 

 

 

 

 





## Principle

Principle

A binding obligation can arise from a one-sided promise that conditions enforceability on actual performance by the other party rather than on reciprocal promises.

 

 

 

 

 





## Demonstration

Demonstration

An owner posts a reward for the return of a lost dog; any person who finds and returns the dog performs the act that creates the owner's obligation to pay the reward.

 

 

 

 

## Misapplication

Misapplication

Treating an advertisement offering a reward as a bilateral offer requiring a return promise from a responder, thereby suing for breach when no performance was yet attempted.

 

 

 

 

 





## Consequence

Consequence

When performance is completed by the offeree, the promisor must fulfil the promised benefit and cannot revoke the promise if revocation would occur after performance has begun or been completed under applicable rules.

 

 

 

 

## Reversal

Reversal

A bilateral contract, where both parties exchange mutual promises and obligations arise at the moment promises are exchanged rather than upon one party's performance.

 

 

 

 

 





## Boundary

Boundary

Does not include gratuitous announcements that lack intent to be legally bound, nor situations where statute or regulation requires written mutual assent; excludes offers that are treated by law as invitation to negotiate rather than enforceable unilateral commitments.

 

 

 

 

 





## Semantic Tension

Semantic Tension

Often confused with an offer that merely invites negotiation; the tension centers on whether the maker intended to be bound upon performance (unilateral) or only upon receiving a return promise (bilateral).

 

 

 

 

 





## Synthesis

Synthesis

A unilateral contract is a one-sided promise enforceable only after the requested performance is completed, creating a legal duty for the promisor at the moment of valid performance.