umowie

Umowa is a binding agreement between two or more parties that creates obligations enforceable by law. In Polish law, contracts are primarily governed by the Civil Code (Kodeks cywilny). The term umowie is the locative/dative form of umowa, commonly used in phrases like w umowie or na podstawie umowy.

An agreement is formed when two or more parties express a will to create, modify, or extinguish obligations, through offer and acceptance. Key elements include capacity to contract, a lawful and possible object, and a legitimate cause. The parties’ consent must be freely given; deceit or duress can render a contract void or voidable.

Most contracts can be concluded orally, but some categories require written form for evidentiary or enforceability purposes, and real property or certain regulated arrangements are typically executed in writing or before a notary.

Common types of contracts include umowa sprzedaży (sale), umowa najmu (lease), umowa zlecenia (mandate), umowa o dzieło (contract of service/work), and umowa o świadczenie usług (service contract). In consumer relations, special protections apply, including restrictions on unfair terms and additional rights in distance or consumer contracts.

If a party breaches a contract, the other may demand performance, damages, or termination, subject to the rules of the Civil Code. The law also covers remedies such as assignment, novation, and remedies for defective performance (where applicable). Limitation periods govern the time to bring claims, with general and specific durations depending on the claim.

See also: Kodeks cywilny, ochrona praw konsumentów.