What is a condition of an obligation that may prevent its enforcement until a specific uncertain event occurs?

A suspensive condition is a legal term referring to a situation in which an obligation will not be enforced until a specific uncertain event takes place. This condition essentially delays the effect of the obligation. For example, if a contract states that a payment is due only if a project is completed by a certain date, the obligation to pay is suspended until that event occurs.

This concept is crucial in contract law, as it allows parties to establish terms that specify when certain rights and duties will come into effect. The fulfillment of the suspensive condition is what triggers the enforcement of the obligation.

Other types of conditions, like resolutory conditions, involve the termination of an existing obligation upon the occurrence of a specific event, rather than delaying the obligation itself. Understanding these definitions helps clarify why a suspensive condition specifically refers to an obligation that is set to activate based on uncertain future events.