Elements of an Acceptance

In this activity, you'll be answering questions about the acceptance of an offer. Recall that for an acceptance to be valid there should be (1) a manifestation of intent to be bound by the acceptance to the contract, (2) agreement to the definite and certain terms of the offer, and (3) communication to the offeror.

Once an offer has been made, the offeree has the power to accept that offer and form a contract. Under the common law, the basic requirements for a valid acceptance parallel those for a valid offer. There should be a manifestation of intent to be bound by the acceptance to the contract, agreement to the definite and certain terms of the offer, and communication to the offeror.

Read the situations provided. Then, answer the accompanying questions.

A particularly gruesome murder occurred in a dark alleyway behind a local bar. The police investigated, but the murderer covered his tracks so well that they found no leads. As a result, a reward of $4,000 was offered for information leading to the arrest of the murder suspect. To receive the award, the information provided must be communicated by November 15, and also positively lead to the arrest of the murderer. An eyewitness, George, became aware of the reward after seeing a poster advertising it. At that point he decided to give the police evidence which led to the arrest of the murderer. George gave the information on November 13 via telephone to the police.

Even though the police did not specify the mode of communication in the offer, they do not want to give George the reward. They tell him that only information provided in person will receive the reward, and since George called by phone, he does not qualify. George argues he should receive the reward because the means were not specified in the offer. Who is correct?