Contract Validity Contract Validity

7 months ago

My grandfather entered into a contract with his cousin 22 years ago but he was illiterate and on the contract someone signed his name instead of his thumb impression. There are a few witnesses who signed the contract as well. What is the validity of the contract, should it be invalid or the witnesses signing it nullify the fact that my grandfather did not sign it

Legal Counsel Vidhikarya

Responded 7 months ago

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A.Dear Client,
In a bipartite contract or agreement, if one party out of two is illiterate, then his thumb impression on the agreement is required to be identified and attested by an Advocate or Notary explaining the contents of the Agreement to the illiterate party. In the absence of such an attestation, witnesses who were signatories of the said contract may be called on to prove the fact before the Court to nullify the contract. Get in touch with an Advocate for guidance and steps.
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Vidhi Samaadhaan Vidhi Samaadhaan

Anik

Responded 7 months ago

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A.Dear Client,
The validity of a contract can be complex and may depend on various factors, including the circumstances of its creation and the applicable laws in your jurisdiction. Here are some points to consider:

Capacity to Contract: For a contract to be valid, all parties involved must have the capacity to contract. This typically means they must have the legal capacity to understand the terms of the contract and its implications. If your grandfather was illiterate and someone else signed on his behalf without his understanding or consent, this could raise concerns about his capacity to contract.

Forgery and Fraud: If someone signed your grandfather's name without his knowledge or consent, it could be considered forgery and fraud, which are illegal activities. These actions can potentially invalidate the contract.

Witnesses: The fact that witnesses signed the contract may not necessarily validate it if there are issues related to forgery, fraud, or the lack of your grandfather's capacity to contract. Witnesses are typically there to attest to the authenticity of the contract and the parties involved, but their signatures alone may not make an invalid contract valid.

Statute of Limitations: Depending on your jurisdiction, there may be a statute of limitations that could affect whether your grandfather can challenge the contract after a certain period of time has passed. It's important to consult with a legal professional to understand the relevant time limits.

Legal Advice: To assess the validity of the contract and determine your options, it is advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in contract law. They can review the specific details of the case, the contract itself, and any applicable laws to provide tailored advice.

Evidence: Documenting and preserving any evidence related to the contract, such as witness statements, the circumstances under which it was signed, and your grandfather's understanding (or lack thereof), can be crucial if you decide to challenge the contract's validity.

It's essential to seek legal advice specific to your situation, as contract law can vary significantly by jurisdiction, and the facts of each case are unique.
Thank you.
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