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The definition of assignment & assumption agreement.

By Rebecca K. McDowell, J.D.

October 19, 2019

Reviewed by Michelle Seidel, B.Sc., LL.B., MBA

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assignment and assumption definition

  • Land Contract Law in Florida

Handshake after signing contracts

Assignments and assumptions are part of contract law and refer to the transfer of someone's duties and benefits in a contract to another. Assignments and assumptions are common with respect to contracts for loans or leases. A lender or lessor may assign its rights to another lender or lessor, and a borrower or lessee may find someone to assume the loan or lease and make the payments.

The Elements of a Contract

A contract is legally formed when two or more parties enter into an agreement with certain elements, which include:

  • An offer. For instance, in a mortgage transaction, the lender offers to loan money to the borrower.
  • Acceptance of the offer. The mortgage borrower agrees to borrow the money.
  • Consideration. Consideration in a contractual relationship means the things the two parties give to each other in exchange for entering the contract. A mortgage lender loans money to the borrower, and in exchange, the borrower agrees to repay the money and give the lender a lien on the house. The loan, the repayment with interest and the mortgage lien are consideration for the contract.
  • Mutuality. The parties must have come together and agreed upon the terms of the contract Read More: How Does a Contract Work?

Burdens and Benefits of a Contract

The contract sets forth what the parties are required to do during the contractual relationship. With a mortgage, the lender is required to loan the money and apply the payments correctly in accordance with the agreement, and then release the lien when the loan is paid. The borrower is required to pay the loan back with interest, pay the property taxes and make sure the property has insurance.

These contractual obligations create both burdens and benefits on both sides. The lender has the burden of making the loan and applying the payments correctly, but it has the benefit of receiving interest on the loan. The borrower has the burdens of making payments and insuring the property but has the benefit of owning the home.

Assigning a Contract

An assignment occurs when one party to a contract transfers, or assigns, its rights and obligations under the contract to another party. This happens frequently with mortgage loans, as lenders sell loans to other lenders. The lender will enter into an assignment agreement and assign the note and the mortgage to another party. The borrower then must make the payments to the assignee. The assignee's right and obligations under an assignment are the same as the assignor's rights and obligations and cannot be changed without a new contract.

Assuming a Contract

An assumption is the other side of the coin, in a sense. Assumptions are common with respect to leases and mortgages and typically occur when the borrower or lessee wants to transfer the property to someone else without paying off the loan or lease. Assumption means someone is taking over the side of the contract that requires payment.

If the contract allows it, another person can agree to assume the original party's obligations under the contract – the obligations to make monthly payments, etc. – in exchange for taking over the ownership or the lease.

Not every contract can be assumed. The language of the contract will state whether the borrower or lessee is allowed to transfer the property or lease by assumption.

Assignment and Assumption Agreements

Assignments and assumptions are both conducted by written agreement. Sometimes an assignment and an assumption will occur in the same transaction, and one agreement will cover both; the parties are assigning the benefits and assuming the burdens.

Assignments and assumptions are both transfers of contractual benefits and burdens from one party to another. They differ from each other based on the original position of the transferring party and the duties and benefits being transferred.

  • Bankrate: Assumable Mortgage: Take Over Seller's Loan
  • The Law Dictionary: What is Assumption?
  • Nolo: What Is an Assignment of Contract?
  • U.S. Legal: Elements of a Contract

Rebecca K. McDowell is a creditors' rights attorney with a special focus on bankruptcy and insolvency. She has a B.A. in English from Albion College and a J.D. from Wayne State University Law School. She has written legal articles for Nolo and the Bankruptcy Site.

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What is an Assignment and Assumption Agreement: Everything You Need to Know

An assignment and assumption agreement is an agreement for transferring contractual duties and rights. 3 min read updated on January 01, 2024

“What is an assignment and assumption agreement?” is a question that you may find yourself asking if you intend to end your involvement in contract by letting another person step into your shoes. An assignment and assumption agreement is an agreement for transferring contractual duties and rights. It is a separate agreement from the one being transferred. The original contract may contain certain terms and conditions regarding assignments and assumptions, so it is important for the parties involved to review the contract carefully before proceeding with the transfer.

What Is an Assignment and Assumption Agreement?

Also referred to as an assignment and assumption, an assignment and assumption agreement is an agreement that is established when one party of a contract wishes to transfer his or her  contractual obligations and rights to another party. The party who is transferring his or her rights is called the assignor, while the one receiving them is known as the assignee.

In some situations, an assignor will not be completely released from liability even after he or she has assigned the contract. The parties should look closely at the specific language in the contract to determine the restrictions and terms that apply to assignments and assumptions. An agreement for an assignment and assumption is a document that is separate from the contract it transfers.

Reasons for Creating an Assignment and Assumption Agreement

After two parties  enter into a contract , a change in business climate, one party's equity, or other factors may make it necessary to assign the contract. If both parties agree to the assignment and sign the necessary documents to transfer existing duties and interests, an agreement may be assigned to and assumed by another party.

A business may lose its foothold in the marketplace or one of contracting parties may fail to perform its contractual obligations due to changing local laws. Instead of leaving parties bound to an irrelevant or  dated agreement , an assignment makes it possible for struggling or incapable parties to be replaced with parties that are more capable of responding to the requirements and goals of the contract. The process of assignment itself enables the parties to continue a dialogue, which can help develop and solidify a successful business relationship.

A Guide to Creating an Assignment and Assumption Agreement

Sometimes, a contract may have specific rules regarding what type of assignment is permitted, who can receive the assignment, and how the assignment should be processed. It is essential that you read the original contract to ensure that all contracting parties have met all the requirements for assignments and assumptions. Each party should be given enough time to review both the initial agreement and the assignment. This will help prevent the situation where one party claims that he or she does not understand the terms and their effect on the agreement or his or her rights and duties.

In addition, you and the other party should carefully review the assignment to make sure that it includes all relevant deal points. Avoid assuming that both parties have agreed to certain terms or expectations even if they are not clearly stated in the document. It is better to over-include than under-include terms in the agreement. Since the terms of the initial agreement are still effective, both parties should continue to fulfill their contractual obligations until the assignment is signed and completed.

Three copies of the assignment and assumption agreement must be signed: two for the initial contracting parties and one for the assignee. Your copy of the signed assignment agreement should be kept with the original agreement. Once the assignment is created and signed, it will become part of the initial contract and should be treated as such. Depending on the  terms of the agreement , you may want to have the assignment witnessed or notarized. By doing so, you can avoid the situation where someone challenges the validity of a signature.

What to Include in an Assignment and Assumption Agreement

An assignment and assumption agreement can be written in many different ways. In many instances, such an agreement includes the following:

  • Names of assignor and assignee
  • Whereas clause stating that both assignor and assignee have agreed to the assignment
  • Statement of assignment
  • Statement of assumption
  • Effective date of assignment
  • Statement about future transfers and assignments to permitted successors
  • Declaration that the agreement can be executed in counterparts
  • Statement confirming the presence of witnesses
  • Signatures of the assignor and assignee

If you need help drafting an assignment and assumption agreement, you can  post your legal need on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.

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Assignment and assumption agreement

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What is an assignment and assumption agreement?

An assignment and assumption agreement is a contract that allows one of the parties to transfer their contractual rights and duties to another party.

An assignment of contract is used after a previous agreement has been signed and one of the parties wants to pass on its obligations to a third party that wasn\’t originally part of the contract.

The parties involved in an assignment of contract are:

assignment and assumption definition

Uses of assignment agreements

Asset purchase transactions.

 During mergers and acquisitions , the parties typically enter into additional agreements that are accessory to the purchase contract to evidence the transfer of assets. Among these ancillary documents is the assignment and assumption agreement, which may be required to make the Asset Purchase Agreement (APA) effective. 

In the context of a business transaction, the assignment and assumption agreement is a shorter agreement than the APA. A buyer will use the assignment contract to evidence the ownership of the assigned assets, while the seller uses it to prove that it is the buyer who now has assumed all the rights and obligations related to the assigned asset.

In asset acquisitions, it is common to have several assignment agreements that are used to authenticate the property of different assets, such as patents, trademarks, or copyrights. 

Opting out of a contract

If the party of a contract is no longer able to fulfill its obligations or wants to cede its rights to someone else, assignment agreements can come into place. Only if the terms of the original contract allow it, the assignor can transfer its property rights and obligations or debt to someone else.

An example could be a contractor who needs help to complete a job and assigns tasks and entitlements to a subcontractor.   

Startup Assignment Agreements

Assignment contracts are typically used by newly formed businesses that rely on software, trademarks, or other sort of intellectual property. Since technology startups expect financing from outside investors, a technology attorney will usually recommend the use of assignment agreements as a means of ensuring third parties, such as shareholders, can profit from using their IP and make it easier to find funding for their businesses. 

Conditions for an assignment contract to be valid

To be able to hand over the contractual obligations, the following criteria need to be met:

It’s essential to notice that, although assigning a contract will transfer the rights and duties to the receiving party, the assignor will not be released from any obligations that arose before the assignment. Before entering a contract assignment, ensure a contract review lawyer advises you it is safe to proceed, how to do it, and if you will be still liable for specific terms in the contract.

An assignment will not be enforced if:

assignment-agreement-m&a

Elements of an Assignment Agreement

Details on the existing agreement: Provides identification data on the existing contract, such as its date of execution and purpose. 

Additionally, the assignment contract will contain provisions related to indemnification and governing law.  

In M&A, when in need to prove the ownership of specific assets, or if you are facing difficulties in fulfilling your contractual obligations, an assignment and assumption agreement will demonstrate you are the right owner and keep your business’s credibility intact. 

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Assignment and Assumption Agreement

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Understanding Assumption Agreements: A Simple Guide

LegalGPS : May 9, 2024 at 12:46 PM

Have you ever heard of the term "assumption agreement" and wondered what it meant? You're not alone. To understand assumption agreements, we need to delve a bit into the world of contractual law. But don't worry, I promise to make it as simple as possible while still bringing you the essential knowledge you need. Also, we have an assumption agreement template if you need one.

6

Table of Contents

Detailed understanding of assumption agreement, the purpose of assumption agreement, benefits of using assumption agreements, real-life examples of assumption agreements, faq on assumption agreement, components of an assumption agreement.

  • Identify and review the original agreement
  • Negotiate terms with the assignee
  • Draft the assumption agreement
  • Edit and finalize
  • Retain a copy

Do you need a lawyer for this?

Definition: An assumption agreement is a kind of legal document that you'll find commonly used in finance and real estate transactions. This type of agreement transfers the obligations of one party under a contract to another party.

Imagine you want to sell your business but have outstanding debts that need to be paid. The buyer of your business agrees to assume those debts and pay them, along with owning the business. This situation is where an assumption agreement comes in; it's there to ensure that everyone knows who's responsible for paying these debts after the transaction takes place.

Usage: We often see assumption agreements during mergers and acquisitions, wherein the buyer will assume certain liabilities of the selling company. Another common scenario is in loan assumption, wherein the obligation of paying a loan is transferred from the initial borrower to a new borrower.

Parties Involved: Typically, an assumption agreement includes two main parties: the assignor (let's say, Seller A) and the assignee (Buyer B). Seller A is looking to transfer their obligations, while Buyer B is ready to assume those obligations.

The purpose of an assumption agreement is to ensure the seller is freed from their obligations, while the buyer agrees to take on these obligations. Legally, the seller could still be held liable if they don't have a proper assumption agreement in place that absolves them of those responsibilities. The agreement provides a clear record that the buyer has taken over the obligations, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.

For example, if the seller is responsible for paying property taxes, they'll want to be sure that's transferred over to the new owner. If it's not, then they could still be held liable for those payments. The same goes for any other obligations such as utilities or insurance premiums.

Much like a sturdy handrail on a steep staircase, an assumption agreement provides fundamental support, helping to avoid slips and falls in the world of contract law.

Benefits for the Assignor: The assignor, having fulfilled their obligations up to the point of the sale, can walk away without having to worry about what happens next. With a legally binding assumption agreement in place, they're unburdened from any obligations in the contract previously held.

Benefits for the Assignee: For the assignee, an assumption agreement clearly states what obligations they're now responsible for. As with any binding agreement, it's important to have all the details in black and white. After all, no one wants to enter a business arrangement based on hearsay.

This is important because assumptions can be legally binding, meaning that if the assignee is not given full disclosure on what their obligations are, they could be held liable for any damages incurred.

For example, if they were to sign a lease on an office space but didn't know that it was also being used as a storage unit for the previous owner's inventory or equipment, they could be held responsible for returning the premises back to its original state when they vacate.

concept of people forming a corporation

Consider a real estate scenario. Let's say you're buying a house that still has an existing mortgage. Assume you plan to pay the remaining mortgage rather than obtaining a new mortgage. An assumption agreement can transfer the responsibility of the mortgage from the seller to you, the buyer. The seller can walk away from the mortgage, and you can continue making payments on the existing mortgage.

Another example, let's say a business is sold, and the new owner takes responsibility for the lease on the building. The lease assumption agreement details the new obligations of the new owner and ensures the original owner is no longer responsible for the lease.

Lastly, an assumption agreement can be used for a joint venture, in which two or more parties are working together to create something. This type of agreement details how the business will be run and what each party's responsibilities will be.

Q: Are assumption agreements legally binding?

Yes, assumption agreements are legally binding. Like any other contract, it sets out the terms and conditions of the agreement that the assignor and the assignee have mutually agreed upon.

Q: What happens if the assignee is unable to fulfill the obligations listed in the assumption agreement?

The remedies will depend on the stipulations of the agreement. The assignor might legally be able to retrieve their transferred right/obligation if the assignee fails to perform their contractual duty.

Q: What happens if the assignee does not fulfill the obligations listed in the assumption agreement?

When you're preparing an assumption agreement, it's essential to include specific elements to ensure its legality and enforceability. Here are some of the key components to include in an assumption agreement:

Identification of parties: Clearly outline the legal names and contact information of the assignor and the assignee to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.

Description of the original agreement: Provide a brief description of the initial agreement, including its date, purpose, and any relevant reference numbers or identification codes. In many cases, attaching a copy of the original agreement as an exhibit is helpful.

  • List of obligations: Clearly identify and list all obligations being transferred from the assignor to the assignee in the assumption agreement. This helps to ensure clarity and accountability for both parties.
  • Effective date: State when the obligations will officially transfer from the assignor to the assignee and when the agreement comes into effect.
  • Full assumption: Include a clause stating that the assignee assumes all obligations and liabilities and that the assignor is released from these responsibilities once the agreement comes into effect.
  • Representations and warranties: This section should include any necessary representations or warranties from both the assignor and assignee. This might cover the current status of the obligations, the absence of any outstanding disputes, and confirmation that all necessary approvals have been obtained.
  • Notices: Outline how and where any notices or official communications related to the agreement should be delivered, specifying any necessary mailing addresses or email addresses.
  • Governing law: Clearly state which jurisdiction's laws will apply to the agreement. This ensures there's a clear legal framework if any disputes arise later.
  • Signatures: Finally, make sure both the assignor and the assignee sign and date the agreement. This brings the contract into effect and makes it legally binding.

people in a meeting

Preparing Your Assumption Agreement

If you're planning to create an assumption agreement, following these steps can help you prepare a well-crafted, legally sound document:

Identify and review the original agreement: To prepare an accurate assumption agreement, you'll first need to identify the initial agreement you intend to assume. Review it thoroughly to identify any clauses or inconspicuous details that may affect the assumption. Take note of any laws that apply to the original agreement and whether they will be carried over into the assumption. For example, if the initial contract was made in another state, you'll need to consider how this affects your ability to assume it. If there are specific laws regarding assumption agreements in your state, make sure you're familiar with them before proceeding.

Negotiate terms with the assignee: Just as with any other agreement, both parties' interests should be safeguarded through negotiation. Discuss any concerns or demands with potential assignees before finalizing the components of your assumption agreement. This is important because assumption agreements are legally binding contracts, so you'll want to ensure that all of your needs are met. In some cases, the assignee may not be willing to accept certain terms and conditions; if this is the case, it's best to walk away from the deal rather than proceeding without agreement.

Draft the assumption agreement: Using the guidance outlined above, prepare a first draft of the agreement. Double-check all the details and include both the assignor's and the assignee's input. This might look like the following:



Edit and finalize: Make any necessary revisions and proofread the agreement to ensure clarity and accuracy. Once both parties are satisfied with the terms, sign and date the document. If you don't do this before having the document notarized, then you'll need to get the signatures witnessed by a notary public. The notary will verify your identity and ensure that both parties are signing of their own free will.

Retain a copy: It's essential to keep a copy of the executed assumption agreement in a secure location, preferably both in physical and digital formats. This will serve as a reference in case of any future disputes or clarifications.

In navigating legal processes and transactions, knowledge is your best tool. Understanding how assumption agreements work can open up new strategies and protections for yourself and your business.

Of course, drafting an assumption agreement should be done with careful attention to detail and preferably, with the assistance of legal professionals. If you're looking for a pre-made template crafted by expert legal practitioners, look no further. We provide an easy-to-use, comprehensive Assumption Agreement template at an affordable price. Navigate confidently in the business world supported by our professional legal templates. Click here to get started!

The biggest question now is, "Do you need to hire a lawyer for help?" Sometimes, yes ( especially if you have multiple owners ). But often for single-owner businesses, you don't   need a lawyer to start your business .

Many business owners instead use tools like  Legal GPS for Business , which includes a step-by-step, interactive platform and 100+ contract templates to help you start and grow your company.

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Understanding the Basics of Assignment and Assumption Agreements

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Introduction

Understanding the importance of assignment and assumption agreements is essential for any business transaction. These agreements are legal documents which outline the transfer of ownership, rights, and obligations from one party to another in order to protect both parties from liabilities and disputes. Moreover, they help streamline the transition of ownership by providing a clear agreement between all involved.

At Genie AI, we understand that navigating these agreements can be difficult without legal expertise - but it doesn’t have to be! Our team provides free assignment and assumption agreement templates so that anyone can draft high-quality legal documents without paying hefty lawyer fees.

These agreements are crucial in corporate mergers, asset sales, and other business transactions as they protect both assignee and assignor from potential future disputes or disagreements. Furthermore, it helps everyone involved in the process come to an agreement about the transfer of assets or liabilities.

It’s also important for businesses to ensure that all records, documents, and information is properly transferred when assigning contracts - something which assignment and assumption agreements make simpler. Not only does this avoid any potential issues in the future but ultimately makes for a smoother transition when dealing with such matters.

In short, assignment and assumption agreements provide an invaluable service when it comes to safeguarding both parties involved in a business transaction while also simplifying their processes along the way. To learn more about how our team at Genie AI can help you on your way towards drafting these essential documents - read on below for our step-by-step guidance or visit us today to access our template library!

Definitions

Assignor: The party transferring the rights and liabilities. Assignee: The party receiving the rights and liabilities. Asset Assignment and Assumption Agreement: An agreement used when one party transfers all or part of their ownership of a particular asset to another party. Liability Assignment and Assumption Agreement: An agreement used when one party transfers all or part of their liability to another party. Contract Assignment and Assumption Agreement: An agreement used when one party transfers all or part of their contractual obligations to another party. Lease Assignment and Assumption Agreement: An agreement used when one party transfers all or part of their responsibilities under a lease to another party. Representations and Warranties: Promises made by the Assignor and Assignee in order to ensure they understand the risks associated with the transfer and are comfortable taking on the rights and liabilities. Indemnification: A clause outlining the terms under which the Assignor and Assignee are liable for any losses or damages due to the transfer. Choice of Law: A clause specifying which jurisdiction’s laws will govern the agreement. Severability: A clause outlining how the agreement will be enforced if any part of it is deemed unenforceable. Governing Law: A clause specifying which court will have jurisdiction over any disputes that arise out of the agreement. Notices: A clause outlining how notices between the parties will be delivered.

Definition of Assignment and Assumption Agreement

Overview of the different types of assignment and assumption agreements, asset assignment and assumption agreement, liability assignment and assumption agreement, contract assignment and assumption agreement, lease assignment and assumption agreement, the purpose of an assignment and assumption agreement, the process of negotiating an assignment and assumption agreement, identifying the parties involved, discussing the terms, drafting the agreement, final review and signing, key terms and clauses commonly found in assignment and assumption agreements, assignor & assignee, liabilities and obligations, representations and warranties, indemnification, choice of law, severability, governing law, potential issues that may arise when negotiating an assignment and assumption agreement, scope of liabilities, representations & warranties, dispute resolution, contractual limitations, practical considerations when drafting an assignment and assumption agreement, identifying contingent liabilities, understanding applicable laws, drafting clear & concise language, complying with any regulatory requirements, potential benefits of using an assignment and assumption agreement, risk reduction, asset protection, cost savings, potential pitfalls of using an assignment and assumption agreement, unforeseen risks, negotiating difficulties, regulatory non-compliance, conclusion and next steps, finalizing the agreement, implementing the agreement, documenting the outcome, get started.

  • Understand the legal definition of an Assignment and Assumption Agreement: an agreement between two parties, which transfers one party’s rights, duties and obligations under a contract to another party
  • Learn who can enter into an Assignment and Assumption Agreement: the parties to the original contract, or their successors
  • Know what rights and obligations are transferred under an Assignment and Assumption Agreement: all rights, duties, and obligations that have been agreed upon in the original contract
  • Be aware of the consequences of assigning and assuming obligations: the assignee is responsible for performing all duties and obligations of the contract, just as if they had originally entered into the contract.
  • When you can check off this step: You will know you have a good understanding of the definition of an Assignment and Assumption Agreement when you can explain it in your own words and are aware of the rights and obligations transferred and the consequences of assigning and assuming obligations.
  • Understand the three common types of assignment and assumption agreements: asset assignment and assumption agreement, contractual assignment and assumption agreement, and debt assignment and assumption agreement
  • Learn the key features of each type, including the type of asset or obligation being assigned and assumed
  • Determine the purpose of the agreement and the advantages of each type of agreement
  • Check off this step when you feel confident that you understand the purpose and differences between the three types of assignment and assumption agreements.
  • Research and understand the definitions of an asset assignment and assumption agreement
  • Learn the different types of assets that can be assigned and assumed in an agreement
  • Understand the purpose of an asset assignment and assumption agreement
  • Research and review the legal elements of an asset assignment and assumption agreement, such as the parties involved, the assignor and assignee, the description of the assets to be assigned and assumed, the consideration for the assignment and assumption, the representations and warranties of both parties, the indemnification and other relevant provisions
  • Draft an asset assignment and assumption agreement with the help of a qualified attorney
  • When you are satisfied with the asset assignment and assumption agreement that you have drafted, execute the agreement according to the applicable law and have it notarized
  • Check this off your list and move on to the next step, which is understanding liability assignment and assumption agreements.
  • Research applicable state and federal laws to ensure the agreement is in compliance
  • Draft a liability assignment and assumption agreement that assigns all liabilities of the transferor to the transferee
  • Identify all liabilities to be assigned, including any and all warranty liabilities, product liabilities, and medical liabilities
  • Include all necessary clauses that provide for the transfer of the liabilities, and state that the transferor will not be liable for any liabilities after the date of the agreement
  • Get the agreement approved by the assigning and assuming parties
  • Sign and date the agreement in the presence of a witness
  • Once all parties have signed the agreement, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step of drafting the Contract Assignment and Assumption Agreement.
  • Understand the difference between an assignment and an assumption agreement. An assignment agreement transfers the rights and obligations of the original contract from one party to another, while an assumption agreement transfers only the obligations of the original contract to the new party.
  • Familiarize yourself with the language of the assignment and assumption agreement. The agreement should clearly state the terms of the assignment, the obligations assumed by the new party, and the liabilities being transferred.
  • Draft the assignment and assumption agreement. Make sure to include all relevant details, such as the parties involved, the original contract being transferred, the new obligations assumed by the new party, and any other important information.
  • Review the agreement with a legal professional. It is important to have a lawyer or other legal professional review the agreement to make sure it meets all legal requirements.
  • Sign the agreement. Once both parties have signed the agreement, it is officially binding and the obligations of the original contract are now transferred to the new party.

You will know when you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have completed all steps in this section, including drafting, reviewing, and signing the agreement.

  • Understand the basics of a lease assignment and assumption agreement
  • Have an understanding of the parties involved in the agreement
  • Know what is included in the agreement such as the particular lease, the transferor, the transferee, a consideration amount, date of assignment, and other related documents
  • Have an understanding of the legal implications of the agreement as far as warranties, liabilities, and other related obligations
  • Understand the process of executing the agreement and any other related steps required
  • Be aware of any local or state laws that may affect the agreement

Once you have a thorough understanding of the lease assignment and assumption agreement, you can check off this step and move on to the next step in the guide: The Purpose of an Assignment and Assumption Agreement.

  • Understand the purpose of an assignment and assumption agreement, which is to transfer rights and obligations from one party to another
  • Learn the different types of assignment and assumption agreements, such as lease assignment and assumption agreements, purchase and sale agreements, and contracts
  • Identify the parties involved in the agreement, what rights and obligations are being transferred, and how the agreement will be executed
  • Once you understand the purpose of an assignment and assumption agreement, you can move on to the next step in the guide
  • Research and determine the terms of the agreement that are appropriate for your situation
  • Identify any potential legal issues that could arise from the assignment and assumption agreement
  • Draft the agreement that outlines the terms, conditions, consideration, and liabilities
  • Both parties must review and approve the agreement in its entirety
  • Make sure the agreement is signed by both parties and that each party has a copy of the agreement
  • When both parties have agreed upon and signed the agreement, the assignment and assumption agreement is officially enforceable
  • You can check this step off your list and move onto the next step once the agreement is signed and all parties have a copy.
  • Identify all parties involved in the agreement, including the assignor, the assignee, and any other third parties
  • Be sure to document all of the parties in the agreement and provide contact information for each
  • Get contact information for all parties involved, including names, addresses, and phone numbers
  • Verify that all parties involved are of legal age and able to enter into a binding agreement
  • Make sure that all parties understand their roles and obligations in the agreement

When you can check this off your list: When all parties have been identified, contact information has been provided, and all parties understand and accept their roles and obligations in the agreement.

  • Learn the key terms used in assignment and assumption agreements, such as “assignor” and “assignee.”
  • Understand the scope of the agreement and the rights and obligations of each party.
  • Consider any potential restrictions that might be in place.
  • Identify any laws or regulations that affect the agreement.

You can check this step off your list and move on to the next step when you have a basic understanding of the terms used in the agreement, and the scope of the agreement and the rights and obligations of each party.

  • Determine the parties involved in the assignment and assumption agreement and obtain contact information for each.
  • Draft the agreement and include all the agreed upon terms and conditions.
  • Review the agreement with all parties to ensure the terms and conditions are accurately reflected.
  • Revise the agreement as needed to reflect any changes or amendments.
  • Once all parties have agreed to the agreement and all revisions have been made, the agreement is ready to be signed.
  • Carefully review the agreement to ensure that all the details and clauses are accurately reflected
  • Make sure all parties to the agreement have signed the document
  • Have all parties to the agreement keep a signed copy of the document for their records
  • Once all parties have signed the document, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.
  • Familiarize yourself with the language and terminology used in assignment and assumption agreements.
  • Understand the components of the agreement, such as the assignor, assignee, consideration, and liabilities.
  • Become familiar with the common clauses found in assignment and assumption agreements, such as the warranty clause, assignment clause, and liability clause.
  • Review the agreement for accuracy and ensure that all of the terms and conditions are clear.
  • Once you have a full understanding of the key terms and clauses in the agreement, you can move on to the next step in the process.
  • Determine who is the assignor and who is the assignee - the assignor is the one who is transferring their rights and obligations to the assignee
  • Know the difference between the assignor and assignee - the assignor is the party transferring the rights and obligations, and the assignee is the party receiving them
  • Understand the implications of the assignment and assumption agreement - the assignor is no longer responsible for the rights and obligations they are transferring to the assignee
  • Make sure that the assignor and assignee are both aware of their respective roles and responsibilities - this will ensure that the agreement is legally binding

Once you have determined who the assignor and assignee are, know the differences between them, understand the implications of the agreement, and make sure both parties are aware of their roles and responsibilities, you can move on to the next step.

  • Identify and list out all of the liabilities and obligations that are being assigned in the agreement
  • Ensure that all liabilities and obligations of the assignor that are to be assumed by the assignee are included in the agreement
  • Specify the date on which the liabilities and obligations are to be assumed by the assignee in the agreement
  • Make sure that the assignee is aware of and accepts the liabilities and obligations that are being assigned
  • Confirm that the assignor is not liable for any of the liabilities and obligations that are being assigned to the assignee
  • Make sure to include a clause in the agreement that states that the assignor will not be liable for any of the liabilities and obligations that are being assigned to the assignee

When you can check this off your list and move on to the next step:

  • When the assignor and assignee have agreed on all of the liabilities and obligations that are being assigned in the agreement
  • When the assignor has agreed to not be liable for any of the liabilities and obligations that are being assigned to the assignee
  • When the agreement has been reviewed and approved by both the assignor and assignee
  • Ensure that all statements made by the assignor and the assignee are accurate and current
  • Identify all representations and warranties made by the assignor to the assignee
  • Make sure that any representations and warranties made by the assignor are clear and enforceable
  • Verify that any representations and warranties made by the assignee are accurate and up-to-date
  • Determine the remedies for breach of any representations and warranties

You can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have identified all representations and warranties, verified that they are accurate and up-to-date, and determined the remedies for breach.

  • Assignor should agree to indemnify Assignee from any and all claims, losses and damages that arise from breach of representations and warranties
  • Assignor should agree to pay Assignee’s legal fees and other costs associated with defending against any claim
  • Assignee should agree to indemnify Assignor from any and all claims, losses, and damages that arise from the Assignee’s actions after the transfer of the subject matter
  • Once these indemnification terms are set, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.
  • Determine the state law that will govern the agreement. Generally, the state law that will be applicable is the state in which the agreement is executed.
  • The state law that you choose should be clear and explicit. Consider consulting a lawyer or legal advisor if you are unsure of the applicable state law.
  • Make sure to include the state law that has been agreed upon in the agreement.
  • Check off this step when the applicable state law has been determined and included in the agreement.
  • Read your agreement carefully to ensure that the severability clause is properly drafted
  • The severability clause should state that if any portion of the agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect
  • Familiarize yourself with the definitions of severability, enforceability, and invalidity
  • Make sure that the agreement includes a severability clause that is tailored to the particular agreement
  • Once you are confident that the severability clause is properly drafted, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.
  • Research governing laws in the jurisdiction where the agreement will be signed and enforced
  • Determine the laws that will govern the agreement and include them in the governing law clause
  • This clause should include the state, country, or other jurisdiction
  • Once you have determined the governing laws and included them in the clause, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.
  • Ensure that the agreement includes a provision specifying a proper notice address for each party
  • Check that the notice provision includes the name and address of the recipient, the method of service (e.g., mail, e-mail, or fax), and the time period for responding
  • Review the agreement to make sure that it includes a provision specifying the manner in which the parties will provide notice to each other
  • Confirm that notice is defined correctly, as this is important for determining the time period for responding
  • Once all of these points have been verified, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.
  • Review the agreement to make sure that the assignment language is drafted correctly and is broad enough to encompass all of the rights and obligations being assigned
  • Ensure that the parties are not trying to assign any rights or obligations that are not legally assignable
  • Make sure that the agreement is clear regarding the liabilities of the parties, as they will be assumed by the assignee
  • Confirm that the assumptions being made by the assignee are clearly laid out in the agreement
  • Ensure that the agreement is not assigning any rights or obligations that may be subject to the consent of a third party
  • When all potential issues have been addressed, the agreement can be signed by both parties.
  • Understand that an Assignment and Assumption Agreement (A&A) will transfer some of the liabilities from one party to another in a business transaction
  • Identify which liabilities are to be transferred in the A&A
  • Clarify which liabilities will remain with the original party
  • Establish a timeline for the transfer of liabilities
  • Decide which party is responsible for liabilities that occur after the transfer
  • Make sure that the liabilities are accurately defined and described in the A&A

You will know that you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step when all liabilities have been properly identified, defined and described in the A&A, and all parties have agreed to the timeline for the transfer of liabilities.

  • Understand the basics of Representations & Warranties and what they mean in the context of assignment and assumption agreements
  • Learn what should be included in Representations & Warranties and the consequences of not making accurate representations
  • Research different types of Representations & Warranties, such as those related to title, capacity, authority, and performance
  • Check that all Representations & Warranties included in the agreement are accurate and up-to-date
  • Once all Representations & Warranties have been reviewed and confirmed to be accurate, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step of the guide.
  • Understand that disputes under an Assignment and Assumption Agreement are generally handled by the parties involved
  • Understand the purpose of an arbitration clause in the agreement, which is to resolve disputes quickly, fairly, and affordably
  • Determine if the agreement should include a mediation clause, which is less formal than arbitration and may be more suitable for some disputes
  • Consider whether the agreement should include a choice of law clause, which will determine the governing law of the agreement
  • Know that the agreement should specify the venue for any potential dispute resolution proceedings
  • Understand that the parties may need to provide notice to the other party before initiating a dispute resolution procedure
  • When you have a full understanding of how disputes will be handled under the Assignment and Assumption Agreement, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.
  • Understand the importance of the contractual limitations outlined in the agreement
  • Make sure all parties involved in the agreement have agreed to the contractual limitations
  • Know that contractual limitations are meant to protect the parties involved in the agreement
  • Be aware that contractual limitations may include time limits, scope of duties, and other stipulations
  • When all parties involved have agreed to the contractual limitations, you have completed this step and can move on to the next step.
  • Familiarize yourself with the applicable laws in the jurisdiction in which the assignment and assumption agreement will be executed
  • Make sure to include language in the agreement that will address any issues that may arise due to a conflict of laws
  • Ensure that the agreement properly identifies and describes the rights, obligations, and interests that are being assigned and assumed
  • Identify any contingencies that could affect the transfer of rights and obligations, and include language that addresses such contingencies
  • Consider adding any additional provisions that may be necessary to ensure the successful completion of the transaction

You can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have addressed any issues that may arise due to a conflict of laws, properly identified and described the rights, obligations and interests that are being assigned and assumed, identified any contingencies that could affect the transfer of rights and obligations, and considered adding any additional provisions that may be necessary to ensure the successful completion of the transaction.

  • Identify all contingent liabilities that must be assumed by the assignee, including any pending or potential claims and obligations
  • Make sure the assignee is aware of, and willing to assume, the contingent liabilities
  • Include language in the assignment and assumption agreement that outlines the assignee’s assumption of any contingent liabilities
  • Check that the provisions in the agreement precisely identify the liabilities assumed by the assignee
  • When all contingent liabilities have been identified and included in the agreement, you can move on to the next step of understanding applicable laws.
  • Research applicable laws related to assignment and assumption agreements in your jurisdiction
  • Understand the legal language and key elements of an assignment and assumption agreement
  • Understand the process for filing and registering an assignment and assumption agreement
  • Know what documents and information may be required to complete the registration process
  • Understand the timeline for completion of the registration process
  • Once you have a good understanding of the applicable laws and the process for registration, you can move on to the next step of identifying any contingent liabilities.
  • Research the applicable law, and use language that is consistent with the requirements
  • Draft a clear and concise agreement that covers all relevant topics
  • Ensure that the language used is precise and unambiguous
  • Define any legal terms used in the agreement
  • Make sure that the agreement is in writing and all parties have signed it
  • Review the agreement and make sure it is legally compliant
  • When all of the above steps are completed, you can move on to the next step in the guide.
  • Research applicable laws and regulations that may apply to the assignment and assumption agreement
  • Obtain any necessary licenses or permits, such as a real estate license
  • Ensure that all parties understand the regulations that apply to the agreement
  • Determine if any state or federal laws need to be adhered to
  • When all applicable laws and regulations have been taken into account and complied with, you can move on to the next step.
  • Understand the potential advantages of using an Assignment and Assumption Agreement, including:
  • Transferring existing contractual obligations and liabilities from one party to another
  • Ensuring continuity in contractual agreements between parties
  • Avoiding the need for a new contract
  • When you have a solid understanding of the potential benefits of using an Assignment and Assumption Agreement, you can check off this step and move on to the next one, which is Risk Reduction.
  • Identify the potential risks that are associated with an assignment and assumption agreement
  • Analyze how the assignment and assumption agreement may reduce those risks
  • Understand the legalities that would protect both parties in the agreement
  • Be aware of the potential regulatory requirements that may apply
  • When you have thoroughly assessed the risks and understand how an assignment and assumption agreement can protect both parties, you are ready to move on to the next step.
  • Understand the definition of an assignment and an assumption agreement
  • Learn the differences between the two agreements
  • Familiarize yourself with the processes and procedures of an assignment and assumption agreement
  • Understand the legal implications of an assignment and an assumption agreement
  • Familiarize yourself with the potential benefits of an assignment and assumption agreement
  • Understand how an assignment and assumption agreement can be used to protect assets

You’ll know you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have a good grasp of the processes and procedures associated with an assignment and assumption agreement, the legal implications of such an agreement, and the potential benefits of using one.

  • Understand the different costs associated with the transfer of assets, such as attorney’s fees, recording fees, and transfer taxes
  • Consider the potential cost savings of using an assignment and assumption agreement as opposed to other methods of transferring assets
  • Determine the effect of the transfer on the financial statements of both parties
  • Review the agreement to ensure all costs are accounted for

When you have a thorough understanding of the cost savings to be made and have reviewed the agreement to ensure all costs are accounted for, you can move on to the next step.

  • Be aware of the potential conflicts of interest between the assignor and assignee when an Assignment and Assumption Agreement is used
  • Consider applicable laws, regulations and contractual restrictions when determining if an Assignment and Assumption Agreement is the best option
  • Understand that if an Assignment and Assumption Agreement is used, both the assignor and assignee will remain liable for any existing obligations
  • Be aware that the assignee may not have the same rights as the assignor under the agreement and may not have direct access to the original contract
  • Understand that the assignee may be liable for any damages or losses caused by the assignor’s breach of the agreement

You’ll know when you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have a good understanding of the potential pitfalls and responsibilities associated with using an Assignment and Assumption Agreement.

  • Understand that when assuming liabilities, there are certain risks that may be unforeseen and difficult to calculate
  • Be aware that the assignor of the agreement can still be held liable if any unanticipated risks arise
  • Carefully review the agreement to ensure that the assignor and the assignee are both protected from unforeseen risks
  • Discuss any potential risks with legal counsel to ensure that all parties understand the potential risks
  • Have all parties sign the agreement to ensure that everyone is aware of the risks and agrees to them
  • When all parties have signed, the agreement can be considered complete and all parties can move forward with the transfer of liabilities
  • Understand the differences between the two parties and their respective interests
  • Identify the areas where both parties can agree on specific terms and conditions
  • Determine which party will be liable for any breaches of the agreement
  • Negotiate a fair deal that both parties can agree to
  • Consider any legal, financial, and tax implications for both parties
  • Once negotiations are complete, have the parties sign the agreement
  • Make sure that both parties understand the terms and conditions of the agreement
  • Verify that both parties are in agreement and that all negotiations are complete
  • Check that all the required legal documents are present and in order
  • Check that all parties involved are aware of their respective responsibilities

You’ll know when you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when all parties have agreed to the terms and conditions of the agreement, all required legal documents have been provided and in order, and all parties have signed the agreement.

  • Research the laws and regulations that apply to the transaction, including state and local statutes, to assess potential risks
  • Check for any filing requirements or permits that need to be obtained
  • Identify any restrictions that could occur due to the parties involved
  • Document any potential regulatory non-compliance issues
  • When all potential risks have been identified and documented, you can move on to the next step.
  • Review the terms and conditions of the agreement, as well as any applicable regulations, to ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of the agreement as a whole.
  • Seek legal counsel if there are any questions or concerns about the agreement.
  • Finalize the agreement by signing and exchanging documents.
  • After the agreement has been finalized, it will be legally binding and enforceable.
  • Make sure all parties are aware of their responsibilities and obligations under the agreement.
  • Monitor the agreement to ensure that all parties are complying with the terms and conditions of the agreement.
  • Check off this step when the agreement has been finalized and all parties have signed and exchanged documents.
  • Review the agreement carefully and make sure all parties have signed off
  • Make sure all parties have received a copy of the agreement
  • Ensure that all parties have received the agreed-upon consideration
  • File the original agreement with all relevant documents with the appropriate government agency or court
  • You will know that you have finished this step when all parties have signed the agreement, all parties have received a copy, and the original agreement has been filed with the appropriate government agency or court.
  • Execute the agreement, making sure both parties have signed it and that all parties involved have read, understood, and accepted the terms and conditions of the agreement.
  • Make sure that the agreement has been filed with the appropriate state or federal agency, if required.
  • Start the process of transferring assets and obligations from the assignor to the assignee, as outlined in the agreement.
  • Make sure that all parties have the necessary information to complete the assignment and assumption. This may include but is not limited to: legal documents, financial documents, contracts, and other pertinent information.
  • Ensure that all parties have received the necessary payment for the assignment and assumption.
  • Check that all parties have complied with the terms and conditions of the agreement.
  • You can check this off your list once you have completed all the steps necessary for the successful implementation of the agreement.
  • Ensure you have all relevant documents, such as the assignment and assumption agreement, and any other documents mentioned in the agreement
  • Gather all necessary signatures from the parties involved
  • Make copies of the signed documents for all parties
  • File the original documents with the appropriate governmental agency or court
  • Update any necessary records, including those within your company
  • Verify that all documents have been properly filed
  • You can check off this step and move on to the next step when all documents have been properly signed and filed.

Q: What is the difference between an Assignment and Assumption Agreement and a novation agreement?

Asked by Zane on 27th March 2022. A: An Assignment and Assumption Agreement is used to transfer contractual rights and obligations from one party to another, while a novation agreement is used to substitute one contracting party with another. In a novation agreement, all three parties must agree to the substitution, while in an Assignment and Assumption Agreement, only two parties are involved.

Example dispute

Lawsuit referencing assignment and assumption agreement.

  • A plaintiff may raise a lawsuit referencing an assignment and assumption agreement when one party assumes the rights and obligations of another party in a contract.
  • The lawsuit may be raised if the party that assumed the rights and obligations did not fulfill them or did not fulfill them in the manner agreed upon in the contract.
  • The plaintiff must provide proof that the party failed to fulfill the rights and obligations of the contract in order to win the lawsuit.
  • Settlement may be reached through a negotiated agreement between the parties.
  • Damages may be awarded if the plaintiff can prove the losses incurred due to the breach of contract.

Templates available (free to use)

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Assignment And Assumption Of Lease

Jump to section, what is an assignment and assumption of lease.

An assignment and assumption of lease is a legal real estate document that allows one party to transfer rights and obligations of a lease to another party. Often used in real estate transactions and mortgage lending, the assignment and assumption of lease agreement requires the landlord to consent to move forward.

An assignor may include an assumption agreement to provide legal protection by transferring obligations to the new tenant. For example, if a tenant defaults on a mortgage or stops paying rent, the original seller is no longer liable. Assignment and assumption of lease agreements cover terms like who is newly responsible for the lease and the landlord's contract for this agreement.

Common Sections in Assignment And Assumption Of Leases

Below is a list of common sections included in Assignment And Assumption Of Leases. These sections are linked to the below sample agreement for you to explore.

Assignment And Assumption Of Lease Sample

Reference : Security Exchange Commission - Edgar Database, EX-10.2 2 d425646dex102.htm ASSIGNMENT AND ASSUMPTION OF LEASE , Viewed October 18, 2021, View Source on SEC .

Who Helps With Assignment And Assumption Of Leases?

Lawyers with backgrounds working on assignment and assumption of leases work with clients to help. Do you need help with an assignment and assumption of lease?

Post a project  in ContractsCounsel's marketplace to get free bids from lawyers to draft, review, or negotiate assignment and assumption of leases. All lawyers are vetted by our team and peer reviewed by our customers for you to explore before hiring.

ContractsCounsel is not a law firm, and this post should not be considered and does not contain legal advice. To ensure the information and advice in this post are correct, sufficient, and appropriate for your situation, please consult a licensed attorney. Also, using or accessing ContractsCounsel's site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and ContractsCounsel.

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I have had the opportunity to experience the legal industry in a private setting and public sector, representing individuals, companies of all sizes, as well as the Government. As a strong leader, I take pride in continuously tackling new challenges and learning as much as possible, always finding answers and delivering results to my clients. I received my JD from Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, Florida and went on to pass the Uniform Bar Exam. I am currently licensed in Minnesota and North Carolina. I have experience in real estate law, estate planning, contract law, family law, criminal law, and more.

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To begin his legal career, Ben was a legal fellow with Georgia Lawyers for the Arts. Ben also assisted Michigan State University in protecting its registered intellectual property as lead intellectual property (IP) intern for Michigan State University's Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection (A-CAPP Center). During this time, Ben organized and moderated a panel discussion with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents for A-CAPP's annual Brand Protection Strategy Summit. Ben was selected to join a team of law student interns in Lovran, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Croatia, to handle matters involving cybercrime, international copyright, the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy and the General Data Protection Regulation. Before studying law, Ben worked for Core Security and Meridian Link as a software QA engineer. As a member of Million Dollar Minds Entertainment (Est. 2006) Ben produced countless commercial music recordings, engineered hundreds of songs, and served as executive producer seven studio albums. Ben enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters. He is an alumnus of The South Carolina State University and Michigan State University College of Law.

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  • assignments basic law

Assignments: The Basic Law

The assignment of a right or obligation is a common contractual event under the law and the right to assign (or prohibition against assignments) is found in the majority of agreements, leases and business structural documents created in the United States.

As with many terms commonly used, people are familiar with the term but often are not aware or fully aware of what the terms entail. The concept of assignment of rights and obligations is one of those simple concepts with wide ranging ramifications in the contractual and business context and the law imposes severe restrictions on the validity and effect of assignment in many instances. Clear contractual provisions concerning assignments and rights should be in every document and structure created and this article will outline why such drafting is essential for the creation of appropriate and effective contracts and structures.

The reader should first read the article on Limited Liability Entities in the United States and Contracts since the information in those articles will be assumed in this article.

Basic Definitions and Concepts:

An assignment is the transfer of rights held by one party called the “assignor” to another party called the “assignee.” The legal nature of the assignment and the contractual terms of the agreement between the parties determines some additional rights and liabilities that accompany the assignment. The assignment of rights under a contract usually completely transfers the rights to the assignee to receive the benefits accruing under the contract. Ordinarily, the term assignment is limited to the transfer of rights that are intangible, like contractual rights and rights connected with property. Merchants Service Co. v. Small Claims Court , 35 Cal. 2d 109, 113-114 (Cal. 1950).

An assignment will generally be permitted under the law unless there is an express prohibition against assignment in the underlying contract or lease. Where assignments are permitted, the assignor need not consult the other party to the contract but may merely assign the rights at that time. However, an assignment cannot have any adverse effect on the duties of the other party to the contract, nor can it diminish the chance of the other party receiving complete performance. The assignor normally remains liable unless there is an agreement to the contrary by the other party to the contract.

The effect of a valid assignment is to remove privity between the assignor and the obligor and create privity between the obligor and the assignee. Privity is usually defined as a direct and immediate contractual relationship. See Merchants case above.

Further, for the assignment to be effective in most jurisdictions, it must occur in the present. One does not normally assign a future right; the assignment vests immediate rights and obligations.

No specific language is required to create an assignment so long as the assignor makes clear his/her intent to assign identified contractual rights to the assignee. Since expensive litigation can erupt from ambiguous or vague language, obtaining the correct verbiage is vital. An agreement must manifest the intent to transfer rights and can either be oral or in writing and the rights assigned must be certain.

Note that an assignment of an interest is the transfer of some identifiable property, claim, or right from the assignor to the assignee. The assignment operates to transfer to the assignee all of the rights, title, or interest of the assignor in the thing assigned. A transfer of all rights, title, and interests conveys everything that the assignor owned in the thing assigned and the assignee stands in the shoes of the assignor. Knott v. McDonald’s Corp ., 985 F. Supp. 1222 (N.D. Cal. 1997)

The parties must intend to effectuate an assignment at the time of the transfer, although no particular language or procedure is necessary. As long ago as the case of National Reserve Co. v. Metropolitan Trust Co ., 17 Cal. 2d 827 (Cal. 1941), the court held that in determining what rights or interests pass under an assignment, the intention of the parties as manifested in the instrument is controlling.

The intent of the parties to an assignment is a question of fact to be derived not only from the instrument executed by the parties but also from the surrounding circumstances. When there is no writing to evidence the intention to transfer some identifiable property, claim, or right, it is necessary to scrutinize the surrounding circumstances and parties’ acts to ascertain their intentions. Strosberg v. Brauvin Realty Servs., 295 Ill. App. 3d 17 (Ill. App. Ct. 1st Dist. 1998)

The general rule applicable to assignments of choses in action is that an assignment, unless there is a contract to the contrary, carries with it all securities held by the assignor as collateral to the claim and all rights incidental thereto and vests in the assignee the equitable title to such collateral securities and incidental rights. An unqualified assignment of a contract or chose in action, however, with no indication of the intent of the parties, vests in the assignee the assigned contract or chose and all rights and remedies incidental thereto.

More examples: In Strosberg v. Brauvin Realty Servs ., 295 Ill. App. 3d 17 (Ill. App. Ct. 1st Dist. 1998), the court held that the assignee of a party to a subordination agreement is entitled to the benefits and is subject to the burdens of the agreement. In Florida E. C. R. Co. v. Eno , 99 Fla. 887 (Fla. 1930), the court held that the mere assignment of all sums due in and of itself creates no different or other liability of the owner to the assignee than that which existed from the owner to the assignor.

And note that even though an assignment vests in the assignee all rights, remedies, and contingent benefits which are incidental to the thing assigned, those which are personal to the assignor and for his sole benefit are not assigned. Rasp v. Hidden Valley Lake, Inc ., 519 N.E.2d 153, 158 (Ind. Ct. App. 1988). Thus, if the underlying agreement provides that a service can only be provided to X, X cannot assign that right to Y.

Novation Compared to Assignment:

Although the difference between a novation and an assignment may appear narrow, it is an essential one. “Novation is a act whereby one party transfers all its obligations and benefits under a contract to a third party.” In a novation, a third party successfully substitutes the original party as a party to the contract. “When a contract is novated, the other contracting party must be left in the same position he was in prior to the novation being made.”

A sublease is the transfer when a tenant retains some right of reentry onto the leased premises. However, if the tenant transfers the entire leasehold estate, retaining no right of reentry or other reversionary interest, then the transfer is an assignment. The assignor is normally also removed from liability to the landlord only if the landlord consents or allowed that right in the lease. In a sublease, the original tenant is not released from the obligations of the original lease.

Equitable Assignments:

An equitable assignment is one in which one has a future interest and is not valid at law but valid in a court of equity. In National Bank of Republic v. United Sec. Life Ins. & Trust Co. , 17 App. D.C. 112 (D.C. Cir. 1900), the court held that to constitute an equitable assignment of a chose in action, the following has to occur generally: anything said written or done, in pursuance of an agreement and for valuable consideration, or in consideration of an antecedent debt, to place a chose in action or fund out of the control of the owner, and appropriate it to or in favor of another person, amounts to an equitable assignment. Thus, an agreement, between a debtor and a creditor, that the debt shall be paid out of a specific fund going to the debtor may operate as an equitable assignment.

In Egyptian Navigation Co. v. Baker Invs. Corp. , 2008 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 30804 (S.D.N.Y. Apr. 14, 2008), the court stated that an equitable assignment occurs under English law when an assignor, with an intent to transfer his/her right to a chose in action, informs the assignee about the right so transferred.

An executory agreement or a declaration of trust are also equitable assignments if unenforceable as assignments by a court of law but enforceable by a court of equity exercising sound discretion according to the circumstances of the case. Since California combines courts of equity and courts of law, the same court would hear arguments as to whether an equitable assignment had occurred. Quite often, such relief is granted to avoid fraud or unjust enrichment.

Note that obtaining an assignment through fraudulent means invalidates the assignment. Fraud destroys the validity of everything into which it enters. It vitiates the most solemn contracts, documents, and even judgments. Walker v. Rich , 79 Cal. App. 139 (Cal. App. 1926). If an assignment is made with the fraudulent intent to delay, hinder, and defraud creditors, then it is void as fraudulent in fact. See our article on Transfers to Defraud Creditors .

But note that the motives that prompted an assignor to make the transfer will be considered as immaterial and will constitute no defense to an action by the assignee, if an assignment is considered as valid in all other respects.

Enforceability of Assignments:

Whether a right under a contract is capable of being transferred is determined by the law of the place where the contract was entered into. The validity and effect of an assignment is determined by the law of the place of assignment. The validity of an assignment of a contractual right is governed by the law of the state with the most significant relationship to the assignment and the parties.

In some jurisdictions, the traditional conflict of laws rules governing assignments has been rejected and the law of the place having the most significant contacts with the assignment applies. In Downs v. American Mut. Liability Ins. Co ., 14 N.Y.2d 266 (N.Y. 1964), a wife and her husband separated and the wife obtained a judgment of separation from the husband in New York. The judgment required the husband to pay a certain yearly sum to the wife. The husband assigned 50 percent of his future salary, wages, and earnings to the wife. The agreement authorized the employer to make such payments to the wife.

After the husband moved from New York, the wife learned that he was employed by an employer in Massachusetts. She sent the proper notice and demanded payment under the agreement. The employer refused and the wife brought an action for enforcement. The court observed that Massachusetts did not prohibit assignment of the husband’s wages. Moreover, Massachusetts law was not controlling because New York had the most significant relationship with the assignment. Therefore, the court ruled in favor of the wife.

Therefore, the validity of an assignment is determined by looking to the law of the forum with the most significant relationship to the assignment itself. To determine the applicable law of assignments, the court must look to the law of the state which is most significantly related to the principal issue before it.

Assignment of Contractual Rights:

Generally, the law allows the assignment of a contractual right unless the substitution of rights would materially change the duty of the obligor, materially increase the burden or risk imposed on the obligor by the contract, materially impair the chance of obtaining return performance, or materially reduce the value of the performance to the obligor. Restat 2d of Contracts, § 317(2)(a). This presumes that the underlying agreement is silent on the right to assign.

If the contract specifically precludes assignment, the contractual right is not assignable. Whether a contract is assignable is a matter of contractual intent and one must look to the language used by the parties to discern that intent.

In the absence of an express provision to the contrary, the rights and duties under a bilateral executory contract that does not involve personal skill, trust, or confidence may be assigned without the consent of the other party. But note that an assignment is invalid if it would materially alter the other party’s duties and responsibilities. Once an assignment is effective, the assignee stands in the shoes of the assignor and assumes all of assignor’s rights. Hence, after a valid assignment, the assignor’s right to performance is extinguished, transferred to assignee, and the assignee possesses the same rights, benefits, and remedies assignor once possessed. Robert Lamb Hart Planners & Architects v. Evergreen, Ltd. , 787 F. Supp. 753 (S.D. Ohio 1992).

On the other hand, an assignee’s right against the obligor is subject to “all of the limitations of the assignor’s right, all defenses thereto, and all set-offs and counterclaims which would have been available against the assignor had there been no assignment, provided that these defenses and set-offs are based on facts existing at the time of the assignment.” See Robert Lamb , case, above.

The power of the contract to restrict assignment is broad. Usually, contractual provisions that restrict assignment of the contract without the consent of the obligor are valid and enforceable, even when there is statutory authorization for the assignment. The restriction of the power to assign is often ineffective unless the restriction is expressly and precisely stated. Anti-assignment clauses are effective only if they contain clear, unambiguous language of prohibition. Anti-assignment clauses protect only the obligor and do not affect the transaction between the assignee and assignor.

Usually, a prohibition against the assignment of a contract does not prevent an assignment of the right to receive payments due, unless circumstances indicate the contrary. Moreover, the contracting parties cannot, by a mere non-assignment provision, prevent the effectual alienation of the right to money which becomes due under the contract.

A contract provision prohibiting or restricting an assignment may be waived, or a party may so act as to be estopped from objecting to the assignment, such as by effectively ratifying the assignment. The power to void an assignment made in violation of an anti-assignment clause may be waived either before or after the assignment. See our article on Contracts.

Noncompete Clauses and Assignments:

Of critical import to most buyers of businesses is the ability to ensure that key employees of the business being purchased cannot start a competing company. Some states strictly limit such clauses, some do allow them. California does restrict noncompete clauses, only allowing them under certain circumstances. A common question in those states that do allow them is whether such rights can be assigned to a new party, such as the buyer of the buyer.

A covenant not to compete, also called a non-competitive clause, is a formal agreement prohibiting one party from performing similar work or business within a designated area for a specified amount of time. This type of clause is generally included in contracts between employer and employee and contracts between buyer and seller of a business.

Many workers sign a covenant not to compete as part of the paperwork required for employment. It may be a separate document similar to a non-disclosure agreement, or buried within a number of other clauses in a contract. A covenant not to compete is generally legal and enforceable, although there are some exceptions and restrictions.

Whenever a company recruits skilled employees, it invests a significant amount of time and training. For example, it often takes years before a research chemist or a design engineer develops a workable knowledge of a company’s product line, including trade secrets and highly sensitive information. Once an employee gains this knowledge and experience, however, all sorts of things can happen. The employee could work for the company until retirement, accept a better offer from a competing company or start up his or her own business.

A covenant not to compete may cover a number of potential issues between employers and former employees. Many companies spend years developing a local base of customers or clients. It is important that this customer base not fall into the hands of local competitors. When an employee signs a covenant not to compete, he or she usually agrees not to use insider knowledge of the company’s customer base to disadvantage the company. The covenant not to compete often defines a broad geographical area considered off-limits to former employees, possibly tens or hundreds of miles.

Another area of concern covered by a covenant not to compete is a potential ‘brain drain’. Some high-level former employees may seek to recruit others from the same company to create new competition. Retention of employees, especially those with unique skills or proprietary knowledge, is vital for most companies, so a covenant not to compete may spell out definite restrictions on the hiring or recruiting of employees.

A covenant not to compete may also define a specific amount of time before a former employee can seek employment in a similar field. Many companies offer a substantial severance package to make sure former employees are financially solvent until the terms of the covenant not to compete have been met.

Because the use of a covenant not to compete can be controversial, a handful of states, including California, have largely banned this type of contractual language. The legal enforcement of these agreements falls on individual states, and many have sided with the employee during arbitration or litigation. A covenant not to compete must be reasonable and specific, with defined time periods and coverage areas. If the agreement gives the company too much power over former employees or is ambiguous, state courts may declare it to be overbroad and therefore unenforceable. In such case, the employee would be free to pursue any employment opportunity, including working for a direct competitor or starting up a new company of his or her own.

It has been held that an employee’s covenant not to compete is assignable where one business is transferred to another, that a merger does not constitute an assignment of a covenant not to compete, and that a covenant not to compete is enforceable by a successor to the employer where the assignment does not create an added burden of employment or other disadvantage to the employee. However, in some states such as Hawaii, it has also been held that a covenant not to compete is not assignable and under various statutes for various reasons that such covenants are not enforceable against an employee by a successor to the employer. Hawaii v. Gannett Pac. Corp. , 99 F. Supp. 2d 1241 (D. Haw. 1999)

It is vital to obtain the relevant law of the applicable state before drafting or attempting to enforce assignment rights in this particular area.

Conclusion:

In the current business world of fast changing structures, agreements, employees and projects, the ability to assign rights and obligations is essential to allow flexibility and adjustment to new situations. Conversely, the ability to hold a contracting party into the deal may be essential for the future of a party. Thus, the law of assignments and the restriction on same is a critical aspect of every agreement and every structure. This basic provision is often glanced at by the contracting parties, or scribbled into the deal at the last minute but can easily become the most vital part of the transaction.

As an example, one client of ours came into the office outraged that his co venturer on a sizable exporting agreement, who had excellent connections in Brazil, had elected to pursue another venture instead and assigned the agreement to a party unknown to our client and without the business contacts our client considered vital. When we examined the handwritten agreement our client had drafted in a restaurant in Sao Paolo, we discovered there was no restriction on assignment whatsoever…our client had not even considered that right when drafting the agreement after a full day of work.

One choses who one does business with carefully…to ensure that one’s choice remains the party on the other side of the contract, one must master the ability to negotiate proper assignment provisions.

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Assignment is a legal term whereby an individual, the “assignor,” transfers rights, property, or other benefits to another known as the “ assignee .”   This concept is used in both contract and property law.  The term can refer to either the act of transfer or the rights /property/benefits being transferred.

Contract Law   

Under contract law, assignment of a contract is both: (1) an assignment of rights; and (2) a delegation of duties , in the absence of evidence otherwise.  For example, if A contracts with B to teach B guitar for $50, A can assign this contract to C.  That is, this assignment is both: (1) an assignment of A’s rights under the contract to the $50; and (2) a delegation of A’s duty to teach guitar to C.  In this example, A is both the “assignor” and the “delegee” who d elegates the duties to another (C), C is known as the “ obligor ” who must perform the obligations to the assignee , and B is the “ assignee ” who is owed duties and is liable to the “ obligor ”.

(1) Assignment of Rights/Duties Under Contract Law

There are a few notable rules regarding assignments under contract law.  First, if an individual has not yet secured the contract to perform duties to another, he/she cannot assign his/her future right to an assignee .  That is, if A has not yet contracted with B to teach B guitar, A cannot assign his/her rights to C.  Second, rights cannot be assigned when they materially change the obligor ’s duty and rights.  Third, the obligor can sue the assignee directly if the assignee does not pay him/her.  Following the previous example, this means that C ( obligor ) can sue B ( assignee ) if C teaches guitar to B, but B does not pay C $50 in return.

            (2) Delegation of Duties

If the promised performance requires a rare genius or skill, then the delegee cannot delegate it to the obligor.  It can only be delegated if the promised performance is more commonplace.  Further, an obligee can sue if the assignee does not perform.  However, the delegee is secondarily liable unless there has been an express release of the delegee.  That is, if B does want C to teach guitar but C refuses to, then B can sue C.  If C still refuses to perform, then B can compel A to fulfill the duties under secondary liability.

Lastly, a related concept is novation , which is when a new obligor substitutes and releases an old obligor.  If novation occurs, then the original obligor’s duties are wiped out. However, novation requires an original obligee’s consent .  

Property Law

Under property law, assignment typically arises in landlord-tenant situations.  For example, A might be renting from landlord B but wants to another party (C) to take over the property.   In this scenario, A might be able to choose between assigning and subleasing the property to C.  If assigning , A would be giving C the entire balance of the term, with no reversion to anyone whereas if subleasing , A would be giving C for a limited period of the remaining term.  Significantly, under assignment C would have privity of estate with the landlord while under a sublease, C would not. 

[Last updated in May of 2020 by the Wex Definitions Team ]

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