Williams v Bayley (1866) LR 1 HL 200 is an English contract law case relating to undue influence.Fisher, Michael J., and Desmond G. Greenwood, Contract Law in Hong Kong. Hong Kong University Press, 2007. 262.

Facts Mr Bayley’s son forged his father's signature on promissory notes and gave them to Mr Williams. Mr Williams threatened Mr Bayley that he would bring criminal prosecution against his son unless he granted an equitable mortgage to get back the notes.

Judgment The House of Lords upheld the cancellation of the agreement, on account of undue influence. The agreement was cancelled on the ground that he was influenced by threat.

See also

English contract law Iniquitous pressure in English law Lloyds Bank Ltd v Bundy QB 326 Williams v. Walker-Thomas Furniture Co. 350 F.2d 445 (C.A. D.C. 1965)

References