Contracts

What is a 'conditional acceptance' versus an 'unqualified acceptance' in contract law?

AA. Both are valid acceptances; the only difference is the number of conditions
BB. A conditional acceptance is a counter-offer (not acceptance) because it changes the terms; an unqualified acceptance mirrors the offer exactly and creates a binding contract✓ Correct
CC. Conditional acceptance is valid in Hawaii; unqualified acceptance is only valid if witnessed
DD. Unqualified acceptance is rarely used; conditional acceptance is the standard in Hawaii contracts

Explanation

For a contract to form, acceptance must be unqualified—it must mirror the offer exactly. Any change to the offer's terms (even minor ones) converts the 'acceptance' into a counter-offer, rejecting the original offer. A conditional acceptance that says 'I accept if...' is legally a counter-offer, not an acceptance. This is the mirror image rule in contract law.

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