Loading…
Short, jurisdiction-neutral definitions of the legal terms that show up in contracts, lawsuits, and business documents. Each entry explains what the term means, what it does in a document, and the mistakes to avoid.
A Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) is a contract in which one or both parties agree not to share specific information with anyone outside the agreement. It defines what counts as confidential, how long the duty lasts, who the information can be shared with, and what happens if it leaks.
Read the definition →Force majeure is a contract clause that excuses a party from performing its obligations when extraordinary events outside its control — war, natural disaster, government action, pandemic — make performance impossible or impractical. The clause defines which events qualify, what notice must be given, and what remedies apply.
Read the definition →Indemnification is a contractual promise by one party (the indemnitor) to cover losses suffered by another party (the indemnitee) arising from specific events — typically third-party claims, breach of representations, or specified harms. The clause defines which losses are covered, triggers, caps, and any exclusions.
Read the definition →Due diligence is a structured investigation of a business, asset, or contract before a transaction — typically an acquisition, investment, major partnership, or large contract. It identifies risks, confirms representations, and helps price the deal. Legal DD focuses on contracts, litigation, IP, employment, and compliance.
Read the definition →A Data Processing Agreement (DPA) is a contract between a data controller and a data processor that defines how personal data may be processed on the controller's behalf. Under GDPR Article 28, a DPA is mandatory whenever a controller uses a processor and must cover subject matter, duration, scope, and the processor's obligations.
Read the definition →A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to perform what the contract required — failing to deliver, refusing to pay, delivering late, or delivering something that does not meet the agreed specifications. The non-breaching party can usually claim remedies including damages, termination, or in some cases specific performance.
Read the definition →