Assignment task:
Instructions: You must respect the methodology (legal syllogism) and include the following steps: 1. Introduction of facts 2. Presentation of the legal problem 3. Application of the rule of law to the facts 4. Conclusion
In a contract between Mr. Smith and Corp. & Co. dated February 15, Corp. & Co. agreed to build a shop in Manhattan, New York. The shop was to be completed and ready for occupancy by January 1 of the following year. In December a hurricane struck the New York area and flooded the work site, where construction works had almost finished. In January, Mr. Smith refuses to pay Corp. & Co. and declared Corp. & Co. to be in breach of contract. Corp. & Co. claim that they have performed the required services. What do you think? How would you evaluate Mr. Smith's chances to win the case? Identify the legal framework applicable under contract law and give your opinion.