What is the effect of a court order for specific performance?

A court order for specific performance compels a party to fulfill their contractual obligations as specified in the agreement. This remedy is typically sought when monetary damages would not suffice to resolve the breach of contract, particularly in situations involving unique goods or real estate where substitution is not possible. In such cases, the court aims to ensure that the aggrieved party receives the exact performance agreed upon rather than a monetary equivalent.

While other remedies exist, like monetary damages or potentially voiding a contract, a specific performance order specifically seeks to enforce the actual terms of the agreement rather than providing compensation or invalidating the contract. Thus, the defendant is legally required to complete the actions they promised in the contract.