Voidable

In one sentence

A contract that is valid unless and until one party chooses to cancel it.

Plain English

A voidable contract is valid and enforceable, but one party has the right to cancel it if they want. The party with the right to cancel (often the one who was wronged or disadvantaged) can choose to enforce the contract or walk away from it. Once they choose to walk away, the contract becomes unenforceable. Voidable contracts often arise when one party lacked capacity (like being a minor) or was deceived.

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Example

A 16-year-old signs a contract to buy a car. The contract is voidable—the teenager can enforce it if they want the car, or they can cancel it and get their money back. Once they turn 18, they lose the right to cancel based on age alone.

Used in a sentence

“The contract was voidable because one party was a minor at the time of signing.”

Related terms

Void

A contract that is invalid from the start and has no legal effect whatsoever.

Legal Capacity

The legal and mental ability to enter into a binding contract.

Minor

A person who has not reached the legal age of adulthood, usually 18.

Ratification

Accepting and confirming a contract or action, usually one that was previously invalid or unauthorized.

Breach

A failure to do what a contract requires, such as not paying or not delivering.

Offer

A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.

Acceptance

Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

Consideration

Something of value exchanged by each party to make a contract binding.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.