Is document valid with only one signature?

Question

If a contract with a company lists the "Customer" as being both the husband and wife - with both people signing the original contract, is a further contract for the same goods with only one signature actually valid? I've been morally shafted by a company who are holding me to a contract signed only by me although both myself and my husband are the customer. I'd like to get out of the second contract and wonder if I have grounds to do so on this basis. Any help appreciated!

Answer 1

If your in the UK go to CAB

Answer 2

If the second contract is a simple purchase of goods then it probably is valid.I say 'probably' because it sounds like the first document and the later one are separate agreements although they involve the same goods.There is no obvious reason why the joint signatures on the first should require the company to get both signatures on the second contract before they could rely on it.You could always argue the point with the company and see if they swallow it but I can't think of any particular reason they would be obliged to agree.

That said there may be other relevant factors.For instance why was it necessary/desirable to sign a second contract for the same goods (however many signatures were on it) ? Also does "morally shafted" mean that there has been some sharp practice that could be used to negotiate out of the deal ? Final thought can you not just cancel the second contract either because the small print has a cancellation clause ( or simply on the basis that you do not want the goods anymore :  wouldn't the company just leave it at that ?).There's not really enough detail here to be sure where you stand.