Force majeure
Force majeure clause · Act of God clause
A force majeure clause addresses what happens when an exceptional event outside a party's reasonable control prevents or delays performance, usually setting notice, mitigation and relief conditions.
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Simply put
What it means in ordinary work
It is a contract clause about major disruptions. Whether an event qualifies depends on the clause and the governing law, not on the label alone.
Why it matters
The clause affects who carries the cost and consequences of an exceptional disruption. A clear process for notice, mitigation and relief helps both parties respond without improvising.
A hypothetical in practice
A hypothetical logistics contract requires a party affected by a qualifying event to notify the other within five days, describe mitigation and continue performing unaffected obligations. Relief is limited to the period of impact.
Common pitfalls
A general phrase such as 'any event beyond control' may be interpreted narrowly or unpredictably. Define events and exclusions carefully.
A force majeure notice is not a substitute for continuity planning. Critical services still need contingency arrangements.
Scope and limits
This explains the commercial purpose of the clause. Whether a specific event qualifies is a legal question governed by the contract and applicable law.
Regional lens
How this lands where you work
The global explanation is canonical. Regional notes are additive, separately sourced and shown with their own review state. They never replace the global meaning.
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As-of date for date-sensitive regional content: 5 November 2026. Read the review policy.