Breach Of Promise Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Breach Of Promise, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Breach Of Promise?

(n) Breach of Promise is the failure to fulfill the promises made by a party to another party. Eg. Failure to comply with the promises to marry the girl friend

History and Meaning of Breach Of Promise

Breach of promise was a legal action that allowed a person to sue their former fiancé(e) for breaking off an engagement. This cause of action existed in the United States and other common law jurisdictions until the mid-twentieth century. The roots of breach of promise can be found in common law, where a promise to marry was a legally binding contract, similar to any other contract that could be enforced by law.

Examples of Breach Of Promise

  1. John promised to marry Sarah and then broke off the engagement a week before the wedding. Sarah is now suing John for breach of promise.
  2. Jane promised to give her car to Tom, and then decided not to. Tom sues Jane for breach of promise.
  3. David promised to invest in a business partnership with Rachel, but then backed out without warning. Rachel sues David for breach of promise.

Legal Terms Similar to Breach Of Promise

  1. Breach of Contract - A violation of any of the terms or conditions of a legally binding contract.
  2. Misrepresentation - A false statement or misleading conduct made by one party to another that induces the other party to agree to a contract.
  3. Fraud - An intentional misrepresentation or deception made by one person with the intention of inducing another person to give up money, property, or a legal right.