Condition subsequent
Appearance
Condition subsequent refers to an event or state of affairs, such that its occurrence will bring an end to something else. Alternatively, an event or state of affairs that must continue to exist for something else to continue.
"When I run out of fuel, the fire will die down" or "so long as I have fuel, the fire will continue." In both cases, running out of fuel is a condition subsequent to the continuance of the fire.
In contract law, a contract may be frustrated on the occurrence of a condition subsequent: in a contract to provide a music hall for a musical performance, the burning down of the music hall may frustrate the contract and automatically bring it to an end.
See also