The assignment of a contract occurs when one party to the contract (the assignor) transfers its rights and responsibilities under the contract to another person or entity (the assignee)—usually someone who was not a party to the original contract.
Contracts often include a paragraph or clause near the end of the agreement that addresses whether the parties may assign the contract.
In Oregon, the assignment of a contract is generally permissible unless the contract itself prohibits it or the assignment would significantly change the obligations of the other party. Contracts may include specific clauses that restrict or outright prohibit assignment without the other party's consent. If such a clause is not present, a party can typically assign their rights and responsibilities under the contract to another party. However, it's important to note that while rights can be assigned, duties and obligations under a contract cannot be transferred unless the other party to the contract agrees to the new party taking over these responsibilities. Additionally, some types of contracts, such as personal service contracts or contracts that involve a very specific personal skill or trust, are generally not assignable. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to understand the specific implications of contract assignment in any given situation.