How can you cancel a legal membership contract?

Answer 1

This question pertains to seeking legal advice, which is usually not a good idea to obtain via the internet. For the best answer to this question, you should seek qualified legal advice from a lawyer who is familiar with contract law in your area. The following answer should not be construed as legal advice, but just some things to consider.

Many jurisdictions in the United States, for example, require that membership contracts include several different clauses to protect the consumer. One of which includes the right of the consumer to cancel the contract by written notice within a specific time frame (often 5 - 10 business days) from the signing of the contract with no reason needed. If that time has elapsed, then you might be required to honor the contract, unless another clause allows cancellation.

One such clause might pertain to the health of the student, or injury preventing participation in physical activity. This usually requires a doctor's written statement.

Another clause might be a transfer clause which would pertain to the customer moving beyond a reasonable distance from the place of business where the contract is held. Also, if the business moves to a location that makes travel an unreasonable burden

Of course, if there is any way that the contract holder has violated the contract, and failed to provide services in a manner consistent with the agreement, then the contract might be determined as void in a court of law.

Although this should not be interpreted as legal advice, as an experienced Martial Art instructor, I would say that the best thing to do, if no other options are available, is to talk to the school owner. Explain why you want to be released from the contract, and see if they are willing to do so out of courtesy. Many school owners rely on the commitment of regular payments from their customers so that they can keep their business operating, and cover their expenses and financial obligations (not to mention make a decent living off a reasonable profit).

If there is a legitimate problem, and reason why you want to cancel, most fair-minded Instructors will find a way to compromise, or work something out to resolve the issue. If the school owner is too greedy and profit driven, you might have no other choice but to pay for the entire contract, and then choose to either avail yourself of the services, or write it off as a loss, and don't attend classes any more.