Unconscionable Contract

An unconscionable contract is an agreement that is so one-sided or unfair that it shocks the conscience. In the context of written contracts, this means one party may have taken advantage of the other’s lack of knowledge, bargaining power, or urgency, leading to terms that are excessively harsh or oppressive. Courts may refuse to enforce such contracts because they violate principles of fairness and equity. Essentially, if a written contract appears profoundly unfair or was made under unacceptable circumstances, it may be deemed unconscionable, protecting the weaker party from exploitation.