A quasi-contract is a legal relationship that arises from the creation of a certain expectation, even though a formal contract is not expressly formed. It is essentially a situation where one party makes a promise or takes an action that creates a duty of performance, even though there is no intention to form a full-blown contract.

Elements of a Quasi-Contract:

• Expectation: There must be an expectation of promise or performance.
• Promise or Action: The promisor must make a promise or take an action that creates a duty.
• Duty of Performance: The promisor must fulfill the promise or perform the action.
• Breach: If the promisor fails to fulfill the promise or action, there can be a breach of the quasi-contract.

Examples of Quasi-Contracts:

• Express promises: Promises made in response to a request, such as promises to pay a debt or perform a service.
• Implied promises: Promises that arise from the actions of the parties, even though they are not expressly stated. For example, a landlord’s implied promise to maintain the property in habitable condition.
• Statutory duties: Duties created by law, such as the duty of a manufacturer to ensure the safety of its products.

Legal Remedies:

If a promisor breaches a quasi-contract, the injured party can sue for breach of contract, negligence, or other appropriate legal remedies.

Distinction from Contracts:

Unlike contracts, which are formed intentionally between two parties, quasi-contracts are created unintentionally. They arise from the particular circumstances of the case, rather than the mutual consent of the parties.

Additional Notes:

• Quasi-contracts are not necessarily binding on all parties.
• The law of quasi-contracts varies by jurisdiction.
• The remedies for breach of a quasi-contract may be limited.