What is a contract where one party benefits without reciprocating called?

A contract where one party benefits without reciprocating is known as a gratuitous contract. This type of contract is characterized by one party providing something of value to another without expecting anything in return. In legal terms, it often involves a promise made by one party that is not supported by consideration from the other party, meaning there is no obligation for the recipient to provide any compensation or corresponding benefit.

Gratuitous contracts are commonly seen in situations such as gifts, where the giver intends to provide a benefit to the recipient without any conditions or expectations of return. While there may be an agreement between the parties, the essential element of mutual exchange—typical in most contracts—is absent, which defines the nature of a gratuitous contract distinctly.

In contrast, valid contracts necessitate consideration exchanged between the parties, implied contracts arise from actions suggesting a mutual agreement without a formal contract, and conditional contracts depend on the occurrence of a specified event for obligations to become enforceable. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying the characteristics of different types of contracts.