Breach of Contract
Failing to do what the contract requires, without a legal excuse.
What it means
A breach of contract happens when a party fails to perform an obligation the contract requires — missing a deadline, not paying, delivering something different than promised — without a legal excuse. Contracts and courts often distinguish a material breach (one that defeats the point of the deal and can justify the other side ending it) from a minor breach (one that causes some harm but leaves the deal intact).
Why it matters before you sign
The contract itself usually defines what counts as a breach and what the other side can do about it — read those clauses before you sign, not after a dispute starts.
In a contract, it looks like this
Failing to deliver the signed lien waiver with the payment application was a breach of the subcontract's payment conditions.
This definition is a general, educational explanation — not legal advice. XOsign provides AI-assisted document tools and does not provide legal advice; consider consulting a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Requirements vary by state.
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