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Undue the Influence Lawyers

Similar to duress, a court will find undue influence was exercised when someone who shares a special trust with the victim, uses that trust to persuade them into signing (or not to sign) a contract. It is essentially an abuse of the victim’s confidence and trust.  Courts will protect a person who is found to have been unduly influenced.

Some special relationships creating trust and confidence include but are not limited to: 

  • Husband-Wife
  • Attorney-Client
  • Doctor-Patient (Including Psychiatrist-Patient)

A party to a contract can escape contractual obligations if it can show that it agreed to enter into a contract because of another’s undue influence.  A contract is “voidable” when a victim enters into it under the undue influence of another.  This means that the victim has the option of canceling that contract .

Undue influence requires coercive persuasion beyond giving friendly advice and flattery.  For example, when someone gives in to another’s continual requests and pleas just so she can be left alone, a court may find undue influence. Furthermore, threats never to see a person again and defamation may also be grounds for undue influence.

Should I Contact a Contracts Lawyer for an Undue Influence Issue?

A contracts lawyer will better be able to identify if you are a victim of undue influence and navigate you through the complex legal process.  A qualified attorney could recommend an appropriate course or action to protect your legal interests.

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