general expression

[Hanka]

Hi,

I am trying to find a general expression covering expiration, termination, extinguishment of a contract.
In my opinion, "expiration" = the lapse of the term of the contract and "termination" = e.g. by agreement of the parties or on the basis of a notice. But is there any expression covering all the possibilities meaning that the contract ceased to exist? Like "cessation"?

Thank you very much.

Hanka

[curmudgeon]

A contract could be deemed 'null and void' for a variety of reasons, including mutual agreement or the transgression of one of the parties, or by the elapse of time, failure to meet a deadline etc

[Hanka]

Thank you, but I´d prefer a noun. And I think that "null and void" means that it is no longer valid, but is it the same as "cease to exist"?

Hanka

[curmudgeon]

Ah, you said 'expression'. How about 'anulled'?

[Hanka]

It still isn´t the right one I think that annulment is not general. I think that it does not cover e.g. "expiry".

Hanka

[curmudgeon]

OK I'll think about it.

[curmudgeon]

This is an extract from 'Wickpedia':

Setting aside the contract

There can be three different ways in which contracts can be set aside. A contract may be deemed 'void', 'voidable' or 'unenforceable'. Voidness implies that a contract never came into existence. Voidability implies that one or both parties may declare a contract ineffective at their wish. Unenforceability implies that neither party may have recourse to a court for a remedy. Recission is a term which means to take a contract back.

I think you need a lawyer

[mykwyner]

How about "invalid" meaning "without force in law."

[Hanka]

Actually, I am looking for a noun like "cessation of a contract" (is this not possible to say?)

Thank you very much.

Hanka