Dean Campenella is a detective with the California state police. During the investigation of a missing child, Campenella found new clues that led to the capture of a serial killer involved in another case. Since Campenella was not involved in the serial killer case, and found the clues while investigating another case, Campenella demanded a special reward from the state police department for his help in catching the killer. But his demand was declined citing lack of consideration. Campenella's demand lacks consideration under which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Campenella's demand lacks consideration under the preexisting duty rule. This rule states that if a person is already obligated to perform a legal duty, then performing that duty does not constitute consideration for a new contract. Since Campenella was already obligated to investigate the missing child case, he cannot demand additional compensation for finding clues that led to the capture of the serial killer involved in a separate case.

Dean Campenella Is a Detective with the California State Police