What does "genuine consent" in a contract mean?

"Genuine consent" in a contract refers to the understanding and acceptance of the terms by both parties involved in the agreement. This concept is fundamental to the validity of a contract, as it ensures that the parties have a mutual understanding of what they are agreeing to. When both parties comprehend the terms and conditions and willingly accept them, it signifies that they have entered into the contract voluntarily and with awareness of their rights and obligations.

This principle underlines the idea that for a contract to be enforceable, it must not only be agreed upon but also understood by all parties, which helps prevent disputes in the future regarding the intent and implications of the contract. It safeguards against situations where one party might be misled or coerced, thereby reinforcing the integrity of contractual agreements in legal contexts.