When a contract is deemed ambiguous, who is it typically interpreted in favor of?

When a contract is deemed ambiguous, it is typically interpreted in favor of the party who did not draft it. This principle is grounded in the idea that the drafter of the contract has the ability to clarify or specify terms and conditions. Therefore, if a contract contains unclear or ambiguous language, the interpretation tends to favor the non-drafting party to prevent any unjust disadvantage. This approach helps to promote fairness and protect parties who may not have had an equal opportunity to negotiate the terms.

In the context of this principle, the other options do not align with common legal interpretations of contract ambiguities. The drafter would not receive any favorable treatment in instances of ambiguity, as they are assumed to bear the responsibility for the clarity of the terms they create. Moreover, the notary public does not play a role in contract interpretability—they primarily serve to witness signatures and authenticate documents rather than interpret contractual language. The party receiving the contract does not specifically gain a favored interpretation unless they are also the non-drafting party.