What is a suit upon quantum meruit?

A suit upon quantum meruit refers to a legal claim made for payment based on the value of work performed or services rendered when there is no formal contract in place, or when a contract exists but is deemed unenforceable. This principle essentially allows a party to recover an amount that is fair and reasonable for the work completed, regardless of whether a prior agreement was made about payment.

In many cases, a quantum meruit claim arises when one party has benefited from the work or services of another but has not compensated them. It serves to prevent unjust enrichment, ensuring that the party who performed the work is compensated for the efforts and resources expended. This type of claim acknowledges the principle that individuals or organizations should not be allowed to unfairly benefit at the expense of others.

The other options do not accurately represent the nature of a quantum meruit claim. A claim for reimbursement of costs typically involves a specific contractual obligation to reimburse, as opposed to simply compensating for work done. A challenge to the validity of a contract deals with the enforceability of the contract itself, rather than the value of the services rendered. A claim for damages due to breach focuses on the losses incurred because of a violation of a contract, which is distinctly different from seeking compensation