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In English contract law, what issue did the rule in Pinnel's Case (1602) concern?

Pinnel's Case concerned part payment of a debt. The common-law rule is that payment of a smaller sum at the time and in the manner already required does not by itself…

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In English contract law, what issue did the rule in Pinnel's Case (1602) concern?

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Answer and explanation

Correct answer A

Pinnel's Case concerned part payment of a debt. The common-law rule is that payment of a smaller sum at the time and in the manner already required does not by itself discharge the entire debt. Indian law has a separate rule under section 63 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, which permits the promisee to accept a lesser sum in satisfaction.

Option feedback

Option A

The rule concerns whether payment of a lesser sum can satisfy the whole debt without fresh consideration.

Option B

The case does not turn on a party's minority.

Option C

Fraud is not the issue addressed by the lesser-sum rule.

Option D

Undue influence is not the issue addressed by the lesser-sum rule.

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