Dowsing v Goodwin

In *Dowsing v Goodwin* [1997] NSWCA 95, the New South Wales Court of Appeal considered a dispute between the appellant, Dowsing, and the respondent, Goodwin. The case concerned the interpretation and enforceability of a written agreement for the sale of a business.

The primary legal issue before the Court of Appeal was whether the agreement constituted a binding contract for the sale of the business, notwithstanding certain ambiguities and alleged uncertainties within its terms. Specifically, the Court had to determine if the essential terms of the agreement were sufficiently defined to allow for specific performance or damages for breach.

The Court analysed the principles of contract formation, particularly the requirement for certainty in essential terms. It found that while some aspects of the agreement might have been open to interpretation, the core elements of the sale, including the subject matter and price, were sufficiently ascertainable. The Court applied the established legal principle that courts will endeavour to give effect to commercial agreements where the parties have demonstrated an intention to be bound, even if some details require clarification.

Ultimately, the Court of Appeal found that a binding contract had been formed and allowed the appeal, remitting the matter for further consideration of the appropriate remedies.