A contract may be unenforceable if a court finds that some or all of the contract is against public policy—against the public good because it is contrary to law or morality. A contract that requires a party to commit a crime, fraud, or immoral act, or that limits a parent’s obligation to support the parent’s child, or that unfairly disadvantages consumers may be void as against public policy. The determination that a contract is void as against public policy is subjective and based on the specific contract and circumstances.
In Louisiana, as in other states, a contract may be deemed unenforceable if it is found to be against public policy. This means that if a contract requires any party to engage in illegal activities such as committing a crime or fraud, or if it involves an immoral act, a court may rule the contract void. Additionally, contracts that attempt to limit a parent's obligation to provide child support are typically considered against public policy and are therefore unenforceable. Contracts that are grossly unfair and disadvantage consumers can also be voided on the grounds of public policy. The assessment of whether a contract is against public policy is a subjective one, taking into account the specific terms of the contract and the context of the situation. Louisiana courts will look at the intent of the parties and the effect of the contract's enforcement on the public interest when making this determination.