Define: Specific Relief

Specific Relief
Specific Relief
Quick Summary of Specific Relief

Specific Relief is a remedy ordered by the court that compels an individual to fulfil a legal or contractual obligation when monetary compensation is deemed insufficient. This type of remedy is typically employed in cases involving unique assets such as real estate or rare items. Unlike mere monetary compensation, specific relief ensures the enforcement of the precise terms outlined in the agreement. Failure to comply with the court’s order may result in punitive measures.

Full Definition Of Specific Relief

Specific relief, also referred to as specific performance, is a legal remedy that mandates the exact fulfilment of a legal or contractual obligation when monetary damages are deemed insufficient. This remedy is commonly utilised in cases involving the sale of real estate or rare items. Specific performance is an equitable remedy that a court can grant when the traditional legal remedy is deemed inadequate, either because damages would not suffice or because they cannot be accurately determined. The court has the authority to compel the party to fulfil their obligation as per the terms of the contract. Failure to comply may result in the party being held in contempt of court and potentially facing imprisonment until they adhere to the court’s order. For instance, if a seller agrees to sell a rare painting to a buyer but then reneges on the agreement, the buyer can pursue specific performance. The court can then order the seller to sell the painting to the buyer in accordance with the terms of the contract. Similarly, if a landlord agrees to rent a specific apartment to a tenant but later refuses to do so, the tenant can seek specific performance, and the court can compel the landlord to rent the apartment to the tenant as per the terms of the contract.

Specific Relief FAQ'S

Specific relief is a legal remedy that is granted by a court to enforce a specific performance of a contractual obligation or to prevent a party from engaging in certain actions.

Specific relief can be sought when monetary compensation is not an adequate remedy or when the court believes that enforcing the specific performance of a contract is necessary to prevent injustice.

Specific relief can be sought for various types of contracts, including contracts for the sale of property, contracts for the performance of personal services, and contracts for the transfer of intellectual property rights.

Yes, specific relief can be granted for breach of a non-contractual obligation if the court determines that it is necessary to prevent injustice or to enforce a legal duty.

The court considers various factors, including the nature of the contract, the availability of alternative remedies, the conduct of the parties, and the balance of convenience.

In general, specific relief may not be granted if the party seeking it has also breached the contract. However, the court has discretion to grant specific relief if it deems it just and equitable to do so.

Yes, specific relief can be granted against a third party if the third party is involved in the breach of contract or if the third party is necessary for the enforcement of the specific performance.

If the party ordered to perform specific relief fails to comply, they may be held in contempt of court and may face penalties such as fines or imprisonment.

Yes, specific relief can be granted in real estate disputes, such as cases involving specific performance of a sale agreement or the removal of encroachments on a property.

Yes, specific relief can be sought in addition to monetary compensation if the court determines that it is necessary to prevent injustice or to enforce the specific performance of a contract.

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Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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