Representation

Définition

A representation is an assertion of fact made before or at the time of contracting that induces the other party to enter the agreement. If it turns out to be false, remedies may include annulment or damages, depending on whether it was innocent, negligent, or fraudulent. Dutch law has no separate concept of a "representation"; a false pre-contractual statement is usually addressed through error (dwaling) under article 6:228 or fraud, and parties often convert key statements into express warranties.

Exemple

A seller represents that a company has no pending litigation; if that is false and material, the buyer may annul the share purchase for error.

Pourquoi c'est un risque pour l'entreprise

Representations made during due diligence or negotiations can have binding legal effect even if they are not converted into warranties. A company that makes overoptimistic statements about its technology, finances, or IP ownership, and relies on an entire-agreement clause for protection, may find Dutch courts willing to look past it where the statement was material and induced the deal.

Comment le gérer

• Convert important pre-contractual statements into express warranties so their content and remedy are clearly defined.
• Train your team to avoid off-the-cuff statements about product capabilities or company status in negotiations: these can become representations.
• Keep records of what was said during due diligence and negotiation: if a representation claim arises, documentation of what was actually communicated is essential.

Références juridiques

• BW 6:228 Dutch Civil Code: annulment for error Droit néerlandais

Sauf mention contraire, les références renvoient au droit néerlandais (Burgerlijk Wetboek, le Code civil néerlandais) ; les instruments de l'UE tels que le RGPD s'appliquent dans toute l'UE. Il s'agit d'informations générales, pas de conseils juridiques. D'autres juridictions traitent ces concepts différemment. Vérifiez le texte en vigueur et votre situation avec un avocat qualifié.