This article examines force majeure and other potential excuses from contractual performance under New York law. When applicable, a force majeure provision operates to relieve one or both parties of its contractual obligations.In contract law, force majeure refers to exceptional events which prevent or hinder the performance of an obligation. Force majeure is a contractual concept; something contract parties can agree to and that courts generally will enforce. Our colleagues have discussed the application and interpretation of force majeure clauses in contracts related to COVID19 disruptions. Stay informed on the Supreme Court's landmark ruling on force majeure contracts. Discover the implications of contract suspension.