What is it called when threats are used to force a person into a contract?

The term used when threats are employed to coerce a person into entering a contract is known as duress. Duress involves the use of illegal pressure or intimidation that deprives an individual of their free will, leading them to consent to an agreement they would not have otherwise made. This can manifest through physical threats, economic pressure, or other forms of coercion, rendering the contract unenforceable due to the lack of genuine consent.

In contract law, the presence of duress highlights the importance of voluntary agreement. A contract entered into under duress is often deemed voidable, meaning the pressured party can choose to rescind or void the agreement. Recognizing duress is critical for upholding the integrity of contractual relationships and ensuring that all parties are acting freely and willingly in their agreements.