Pennsylvania Contract Law

Pennsylvania contract law governs commerce.

Pennsylvanians make contracts for reasons ranging from the sale of goods and services to the purchase of real estate. While much of Pennsylvania contract law is similar to that found in other states, specific statutes have an effect on the rights of parties to a contract.

Statute of Limitations

In Pennsylvania you have four years to sue on a contract.

The statute of limitations sets a time limit on when you can bring legal action for a breach of contract. In Pennsylvania, the limit if four years. But parties to a contract can agree, they can shorten the period to one year. They cannot extend it.

Statute of Frauds

To enforce a lease contract in Pennsylvania for an amount of more than $1,000, the contract must be signed by the person with the duty to make the payments.

Consumer Protection

For certain types of contracts, Pennsylvania consumers have the right to rescind the contract within a few days of signing it. If you enter into a contract for goods or services for more than $25 you have three days to cancel the agreement. The same rule applies for memberships in health clubs. If you sign a time share or campground membership contract, you have five days to cancel.

References

• Wolfe Tolbin & Associates Statute of Limitation
• Pennsylvania General Assembly Consolidated Statutes Chapter 13 Statute of Frauds 2A201