Pat’s dog did substantial damage to neighbor Lou’s garden

Pat’s dog did substantial damage to neighbor Lou’s garden. Pat has repeatedly promised to “make it right,” but has not taken any action. Exasperated, Lou tells Pat, “If you don’t sign this contract and promise to pay for the landscaper I’ve hired, I am going straight down to the courthouse and I am going to file a small claims complaint against you.” Pat signs the contract and later decides not to pay. 

Pat can claim that she was under unlawful duress when she signed the contract and it is likely that the contract will be invalidated.