Jefferson v. Paskell 1916 (Case Summary)
In this case, the court addressed a breach of promise to marry, focusing on the readiness and fitness of the parties to fulfill their contractual obligations. The case examined the defendant’s refusal to marry based on an alleged illness of the plaintiff, ultimately holding the defendant liable for breach of promise.
Facts of Jefferson v. Paskell
- The plaintiff, Jefferson, was engaged to the defendant, Paskell.
- Shortly after the engagement, Jefferson contracted a chest disease and was diagnosed with tuberculosis, leading to her temporary unfitness for marriage on the agreed date.
- Jefferson sought treatment and was later declared healthy, with no evidence of tuberculosis.
- Despite Jefferson’s recovery, Paskell refused to proceed with the marriage, claiming an honest belief that Jefferson was unfit for marriage due to her health.
- Jefferson sued Paskell for breach of promise to marry, seeking damages for the refusal.
Issues framed
- Whether Paskell can be held liable for the breach of promise to marry?
- Whether Jefferson was ready and willing to perform the marriage contract within a reasonable time?
Judgment of Jefferson v. Paskell
The court analysed the applicability of contract law when there is a promise to marry.
The court addressed the legal implications of breach of promise to marry, the court reiterated that “in every contract the party who seeks to recover the breach must prove that he/she was ready and willing to perform it.” The court held that Jefferson had recovered and was fit for marriage within a reasonable time after the scheduled date of marriage. She fulfilled her obligation, whereas it was Paskell (the Defendant) who constituted the breach of promise to marry holding him liable.
The court, while ruling in favor of Jefferson, awarded her £500 as damages for the breach of promise to marry.
