What does it mean when a party makes decisions under duress?

When a party makes decisions under duress, it indicates that they feel forced to make a choice due to pressure or threats. Duress often involves a situation where an individual is coerced into an agreement or a decision that they would not normally make if they were acting voluntarily. This can stem from a variety of factors, including physical threats, emotional pressure, or blackmail, which undermine the individual's ability to make free and informed choices.

This concept is important in legal contexts because decisions made under duress can potentially be voided or challenged in court, as they lack the element of genuine consent. Understanding this concept is crucial for recognizing the difference between voluntary agreements and those made under coercive circumstances.