The Modern Contract of Guarantee
By: James O'Donovan, John Phillips
This English edition of a classic text on the subject of commercial credit and security has been re-written to emphasise English law, and focuses on the liability of a surety to pay a commercial debt if the principal borrower does not. The coverage includes: analysis of the factors affecting the validity of the guarantee such as duress and undue influence and the liability of the lender for the acts of the principal borrower; construction of guarantees and the meaning of clauses commonly inserted in guarantees; special principles applicable to guarantees being discharged, and how the lender can guard against that eventuality; difficulties in enforcing guarantees; and rights of guarantors, including rights of set off, indemnity and contribution.
AI Overview
"The Modern Contract of Guarantee" by James O'Donovan and John Phillips is a detailed reference work on the law of guarantees, providing practical insights into various aspects of guarantee contracts. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Validity and Construction of Guarantees: The book delves into the legal principles governing the validity and construction of guarantees, helping readers understand how these contracts are formed and interpreted.
- Avoidance of Discharge: It offers practical guidance on how to avoid a guarantee being discharged, which is crucial for ensuring the enforceability of these contracts.
- Enforcement Difficulties: The authors discuss common difficulties encountered during the enforcement of guarantees, providing strategies to overcome these challenges.
- Drafting Guidance: The book includes drafting guidance to help practitioners create effective and enforceable guarantee contracts.
- Comparative Analysis: It provides a comparative discussion of developments in England and Commonwealth countries, offering a broader understanding of the law of guarantees across different jurisdictions.
Plot Summary
The book does not have a narrative plot but rather serves as a comprehensive legal reference. It is structured to provide detailed information on the law of guarantees, covering various topics related to the validity, construction, and enforcement of these contracts.
Critical Reception
The book has received positive reviews for its practical insights and detailed coverage of the law of guarantees. Here are some excerpts from available reviews:
Book Review by Arbitration: The International Journal of Arbitration, Mediation and Dispute Management: The review praises the book for its thoroughness and practicality, noting that it is a valuable resource for those dealing with guarantee contracts.
General Reception: The book is widely regarded as a leading reference work in the field of guarantees, providing essential guidance for legal practitioners, academics, and students.
In summary, "The Modern Contract of Guarantee" by James O'Donovan and John Phillips is a highly regarded legal text that offers comprehensive insights into the law of guarantees. Its practical guidance and comparative analysis make it a valuable resource for those involved in drafting, enforcing, or interpreting guarantee contracts.