§ 1596 Contract Object Legality

Civil Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says that when you make a deal with someone, the thing you're agreeing to do must be legal, possible, and clear.

Key Takeaways

•The thing you promise in a deal must be legal.
•It must be something you can actually do.
•Everyone involved must understand exactly what it is.

Example

You agree to sell your bike to a friend for $50.

This deal is okay because selling a bike is legal, you can actually do it, and everyone knows what bike you're talking about.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 1596 Contract Object Legality

The object of a contract must be lawful when the contract is made, and possible and ascertainable by the time the contract is to be performed. (Enacted 1872.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

object of a contract lawful possible and ascertainable

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Civil Code. Section 1596.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References