Understanding the elements of a breach of contract can help you protect yourself. Contracts form the foundation of most business and personal agreements, but when one party fails to meet their obligations under a contract, the other party may have a claim for breach of contract. In Oklahoma, successfully proving a breach requires more than just showing that the agreement wasn’t followed.
What Is a Breach of Contract?
A breach of contract occurs when one party fails to perform as promised under a legally binding agreement. The breach can involve failing to perform on time, not performing at all, or performing in a way that doesn’t meet the agreed terms.
Under Oklahoma law, a valid contract can be written, oral, or implied based on the parties’ conduct. Regardless of the form, if a party does not uphold their end of the bargain, the other party may have legal grounds to seek compensation.
Key Elements of a Breach of Contract in Oklahoma
To win a breach of contract case in Oklahoma, the plaintiff must prove all of the following elements:
1. Existence of a Valid Contract
The plaintiff must first show that a valid contract existed. A contract is legally enforceable if it includes:
- An offer
- Acceptance of the offer
- Consideration (something of value exchanged)
- Mutual agreement between the parties
- Legal capacity to contract
- A lawful purpose
Without a valid contract, there can be no breach.
2. Plaintiff’s Performance or Legal Excuse for Nonperformance
The plaintiff must prove they either fulfilled their own obligations under the contract or had a legal excuse for not doing so. If the plaintiff failed to meet their duties without justification, they typically cannot sue for breach.
3. Defendant’s Breach of the Contract
Next, the plaintiff has to show that the other party failed to perform their obligations under the agreement. This could include missing deadlines, delivering substandard work, or failing to pay as promised.
Not every deviation amounts to a breach—courts focus on whether the failure was material, meaning it significantly affected the value or purpose of the agreement.
4. Damages Resulting from the Breach
Finally, the plaintiff must show that they suffered damages as a direct result of the breach. Oklahoma courts require proof of actual losses, such as lost income, costs to fix defective work, or lost business opportunities. Without measurable damages, even a clear breach may not result in a favorable judgment.
Rogers County Business Law Attorneys Can Help
Whether you are trying to enforce a contract or defend against a breach claim, it’s critical to understand your rights and obligations. Our Rogers County business attorneys navigate the legal process to achieve the best possible outcome for you. For a free consultation with an attorney at Kania Law – Claremore attorneys’ law office, call 918-379-4872. Or you can click here to ask a free online legal question.
