Judicial Dictionary



Title Quantum Meruit
Details

Quantum meruit is a Latin term meaning "as much as he has deserved". In the law of contracts, a doctrine by which the law infers a promise to pay areasonable amount for labor and materials furnished, even in the absence of a specific legally enforceable agreement between the parties. Where the defendant is obliged to pay the plaintiff, e.g. for work done, but no specific sum is owing, the plaintiff can recover a reasonable sum, quantum meruit.Such a claim may arise from a contract or in quasi contract. ….. [Sutton and Shannon on Contracts, 6th Ed. P. 442]
So much as is deserved or merited. Reasonable amount to be paid for services rendered or work done, when the price therefore is not fixed by contract. ….. [Cutter vs. Powell, 6 TR 320]