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Simple English definitions for legal terms
dispatch rule
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A quick definition of dispatch rule:
The dispatch rule, also known as the mailbox rule, is a principle that states that when a person sends a letter or document by mail, it is considered received by the recipient on the date it was mailed. This applies to contracts and legal documents, as well as other types of mail. However, if the offer or document specifies that it must be received by a certain date, the dispatch rule does not apply. The dispatch rule varies depending on the jurisdiction and may also apply to filings made by overnight courier services.
A more thorough explanation:
The dispatch rule, also known as the mailbox rule, is a legal principle that applies to contracts and legal filings. It states that an acceptance of an offer becomes effective and legally binding once it has been properly mailed. However, this rule does not apply if the offer specifies that acceptance is only effective upon receipt.
For example, if a company offers to sell a product to a customer and the customer mails an acceptance of the offer, the dispatch rule applies. The acceptance becomes legally binding as soon as it is mailed, even if the company has not yet received it.
The dispatch rule also applies to legal filings. When a document is filed or served by mail, it is considered to have been filed or served on the date of mailing. However, the specifics of this rule can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of filing.
For instance, if a person files a lawsuit by mailing the necessary documents to the court, the dispatch rule applies. The filing is considered to have been made on the date the documents were mailed, even if the court has not yet received them.