Byrne v Van Tienhoven (1880) established the principle that a revocation of an offer is only effective when communicated. The court held that an un-communicated revocation sent by post does not terminate the offer, reinforcing clarity in acceptance and revocation rules in agreements.
Also known as: Byrne & Co v Leon Van Tien Hoven & Co
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🏛️ Court: Common Pleas Division 🗓️ Judgment Date: 6 March 1880 🗂️ Where Reported: (1880) 5 C.P.D. 344; [1880] 3 WLUK 21 📍 Jurisdiction: United Kingdom
⚖️ Legal Principles
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Communication of Revocation: A revocation of an offer must be communicated to the offeree to be effective. Simply posting a letter of withdrawal is insufficient if it has not been received. This principle ensures that an offeror cannot revoke silently without notifying the other party.