How to Write an Agreement to Render a Contract Null & Void

Contracts are agreements between parties, but sometimes a party may wish to cancel the contract. A contract is made null and void when it is not enforceable under law by either party. Many contracts offer you a time period within which you can cancel the contract. Usually, mutual agreement is required between you and the other party for a contract to be rendered null and void.

Instructions

1. Contact the party with whom you entered the contract. Unless there is a clause in the contract stipulating otherwise, most contracts can only become void by mutual consent. Notify the other party that you wish to void the contract.

2. Write an agreement stating that both parties agree to cancel the contract. Consider writing the agreement within the stipulated cancellation time -- usually, three days after signing the original contract. Sometimes the parties to a contract may agree between themselves on a different time limit for voiding the contract.

3. Indicate the original agreement in the new agreement, and state the reasons you are canceling the contract. Ensure that the date is written at the top of the letter. All parties to the original agreement must write their names at the bottom of the new agreement and personally sign it.

4. Witness the new agreement in the presence of an attorney or a third party who does not have an interest in the agreement. Consider having the agreement notarized as proof that the signatures appearing on the document are those of the parties to the agreement.

5. Distribute copies of the new agreement to void the contract to all parties involved. If the agreement is being mailed to a party, ensure delivery by sending the agreement by certified mail and having the recipient sign and send back a return receipt.

Tips & Warnings

• Some contracts tell you about your right to void and how to void them. Use these guidelines to void and nullify your contract.

• To protect yourself, do not sign a contract before reading and understanding it.

References

• County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs: Canceling a Contract
• Entrepreneur: Avoid Contract Disputes
• Docstoc: Mutual Termination of Contract
• Lawyers.com: Contract Termination