Diver v Object Oriented Pty Ltd and Anor [2002] NSWIRComm 138

Diver v Object Oriented Pty Ltd and Anor [2002] NSWIRComm 138

Where uncertainty remains as to the essential terms of a proposed agreement, particularly the scope of a non-solicitation clause, and parties are not of a common mind, no binding agreement is formed. The condition pertaining to counsel’s advice was a condition precedent affecting the existence of agreement rather than just its performance.

Parties
Applicant: Michael Diver; First Respondent: Object Oriented Pty Limited; Second Respondent: Gerald Patrick Anthony Carroll
Jurisdiction
Australia
Judgment Date
20 June 2002
Procedural Posture
Interlocutory Motion / Judgment on Notice of Motion
Outcome
motion dismissed
Legal Topics
Unfair Contract, Settlement Agreements, Conciliation, Binding Contracts

Case Brief

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Parties

Michael Diver

Applicant

Object Oriented Pty Limited

First Respondent

Gerald Patrick Anthony Carroll

Second Respondent

Procedural Posture

Interlocutory Motion / Judgment on Notice of Motion

  1. 1 whether proceedings were settled in conciliation
  2. 2 whether an agreement existed in principle, subject to counsel's advice
  3. 3 nature of the condition (subsequent or precedent) in contract formation

Ratio Decidendi

Where uncertainty remains as to the essential terms of a proposed agreement, particularly the scope of a non-solicitation clause, and parties are not of a common mind, no binding agreement is formed. The condition pertaining to counsel’s advice was a condition precedent affecting the existence of agreement rather than just its performance.

Court Disposition

motion dismissed

Orders

  • motion dismissed
  • costs reserved