What happens when one party makes an alteration to a written contract without consent?

• A. The contract is legally binding as it stands
• B. The contract can be discharged
• C. Both parties must renegotiate the contract
• D. It strengthens the contract's validity

Answer: (B)

When one party makes an alteration to a written contract without the consent of the other party, the typical legal consequence is that the contract can be discharged. This happens because the unilateral alteration modifies the original terms agreed upon by both parties. The intention behind a contract is to create a mutual understanding and legally binding agreement based on the specific terms outlined in the original document. Unauthorized changes disrupt this mutual agreement and can lead the affected party to reject the modified contract.

In practical terms, this means that if a party alters the contract without permission, the other party may choose to void or terminate the agreement altogether. This is rooted in the principle that contracts must be honored as they were originally agreed upon, and any unauthorized amendment threatens the very foundation of that agreement. Thus, the legal standing of the contract can be compromised, leading to its discharge.