contracts
voidable contract
A voidable contract appears valid and is binding until one party, who has the legal right, chooses to cancel it. Common causes include a minor entering a contract, fraud, misrepresentation, duress, or undue influence. The injured or protected party may either void the contract or affirm it and proceed. Until that party acts, the contract remains in effect for both sides.
- Exam tip
- Void means no contract ever existed (illegal purpose); voidable means valid until the protected party rescinds. A contract with a minor is voidable by the minor, not void.
- Example
- A 17-year-old signs a contract to buy land. He can choose to cancel it before turning 18 or shortly after, but the seller cannot cancel on that basis.
Related terms & state variants
Sources
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Last verified: 2026-10-23