Asked by Amber Lloyd on Jul 29, 2024

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Jill Homeowner contracts with Ralph Roofer for Ralph to reshingle Jill's roof.Midway through the job,Ralph says that he cannot finish unless Jill promises to pay him an additional $500.There is no real basis for this demand;Ralph just wants more money.Even though she could have gotten one of six other roofers to finish the job at a reasonable price,Jill gives in and promises to pay the $500,after which Ralph completes the job.Later,Jill refuses to pay the additional $500,and Ralph sues her.Jill defends on the basis of duress.What are the chances of this defense working?

Duress

Coercion or pressure unlawfully applied to force someone to act in a manner they otherwise would not.

Additional $500

An extra amount of five hundred dollars added to a transaction or financial agreement.

Real Basis

The fundamental or underlying reason or foundation for something.

  • Understand the consequences of excessive persuasion and coercion in the realm of contract law.
  • Distinguish among the myriad elements influencing the validity of a contract, including, but not limited to, concealment, duress, and undue influence.
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Zybrea KnightAug 03, 2024
Final Answer :
Jill is unlikely to have a defense here.Ralph's threat looks improper.However,it hardly seems very coercive,because Jill had a reasonable alternative.She could have gotten another roofer to finish the job.