What type of contracts are considered not assignable according to general facts about assignments?

Certain types of contracts are deemed not assignable, primarily due to their intrinsic nature or the specific terms laid out within them. Unique personal service contracts fall into this category because they are often based on the specific skills, talents, or personal attributes of the parties involved. When a contract involves a unique individual’s performance—such as an artist, actor, or specialized professional—the essence of the agreement is tied to that person’s specific capabilities.

If such a contract were assignable, it could significantly alter the expectations and obligations of the original parties involved. The person who receives the assignment may not fulfill the same standards or possess the same qualities that the original party brought to the contract, potentially leading to dissatisfaction or breach of contract issues. As a result, because the specific personal qualities tied to these service contracts cannot be transferred without loss of value or essence, they are generally considered non-assignable.

Other types of contracts, such as short-term contracts or financial contracts, do not inherently possess the same personal elements that would cause them to be unassignable in nature. Therefore, while contracts can often be assigned unless specifically prohibited, unique personal service contracts distinctly highlight the principle of non-assignability due to their reliance on individual performance.