Blog 1: Why an understanding of Force Majeure Clauses are Essential for In-House Counsel.
Jeremy Boyle Solicitor
Specialist dispute resolution and insolvency lawyer, versed in arbitration and fraud law. I am based in the heart of legal London near the Royal Courts of Justice and the Rolls Building.
In today’s volatile landscape—marked by pandemics, geopolitical instability, supply chain disruptions, and natural disasters—force majeure (FM) clauses have become essential for mitigating risks in commercial contracts. Once considered boilerplate, these provisions now play a critical role in protecting organisations from liability and ensuring business continuity.
For in-house counsel, crafting an effective FM clause is paramount, especially for companies operating in high-risk sectors or regions. Your key considerations should include:
? Should FM clauses enumerate specific risks or adopt a broader approach?
? How can remedies like service suspension or renegotiation be structured to safeguard your organisation’s interests?
? What strategies can be employed when an event doesn’t fit neatly into the FM definition?
Stay tuned as we explore how to enhance your contracts with well-defined FM clauses.
If this topic resonates with you and you would like to discuss them further or need assistance with arbitration or contractual disputes, please reach out to me at [email protected] or call +44 207 467 3980 to book a consultation on Teams. I’d be delighted to assist with any challenges you are facing in these areas.