Dictionary of Business Terms: duress
duress
conduct that has the effect of compelling another person to do what he need not otherwise do. It is a recognized defense to any act, such as a crime, breach of contract or tort, all of which must be voluntary to create liability.
Dictionary of Real Estate Terms: duress
duress
compulsion to do something because of a threat.
Example: Abel tells Baker that unless Baker will sell his property to Abel for $1,000, Abel will physically harm Baker. Baker signs the contract under duress, but can later void it by showing he acted under duress.
