Contracts and Sales Multistate Bar Practice Exam

What is required for acceptance of a unilateral contract?

1. Beginning the performance of the requested act

2. Completing the requested performance of the act

3. Negotiating further terms before starting

4. Simply expressing intent to perform

The correct answer is: Completing the requested performance of the act

In the context of a unilateral contract, acceptance is achieved when the offeree completes the requested performance of the act specified in the offer. A unilateral contract is a promise that can only be accepted by the performance of a specific act, and the offeror seeks this act as the means of acceptance. When the offeree fully performs the act, it indicates acceptance of the terms and establishes a binding contract. Therefore, the completion of the requested performance is critical; there is no acceptance until the act is fully executed, as the offeror is only bound to fulfill their promise in exchange for that complete performance. Beginning the performance of the act indicates an intention to accept the offer but does not constitute full acceptance until the act is finished. Similarly, negotiating further terms or simply expressing intent to perform do not fulfill the conditions necessary for acceptance of a unilateral contract. Acceptance requires definitive action that aligns with the terms of the offer.