6. Identity of offeror and offeree

Abstract

This chapter considers situations where one party (A) makes an offer to another party (B) but a third party (C) purports to accept the offer made by A. If A makes an offer to B and B alone, that offer cannot be accepted by C. Whether an offer is restricted to B alone is a question of interpretation. If A makes a mistake as to the other party’s identity, no contract will be formed (or, as it is sometimes said, the contract will be void). If A makes a mistake as to the other party’s attributes (such as their creditworthiness) then a contract will be formed. However, that contract may be voidable as a result of a misrepresentation. Whether a contract is void or voidable is particularly important where third parties have acquired rights in the subject matter of a contract.