What Does “In Perpetuity” Mean in a Contract?
Forever, with no end date - an obligation or right that continues indefinitely without expiration.
Detailed Explanation
"In perpetuity" means the provision lasts forever - it has no end date or termination point. This language is common in intellectual property assignments, where rights are transferred permanently, and some confidentiality provisions.
Be very careful with perpetual obligations. They survive beyond the contract term and potentially beyond your lifetime. What seems reasonable now might be burdensome decades later.
Example in a Contract
“Contractor hereby assigns to Company, in perpetuity, all right, title, and interest in and to any intellectual property created in the course of performing the Services.”
Why It Matters
Perpetual obligations never end. An IP assignment "in perpetuity" means those rights are gone forever. A confidentiality obligation "in perpetuity" means you can never disclose that information. Think carefully before agreeing to forever.
Related Terms
Have a Clause with “In Perpetuity”?
Paste your contract clause below for instant AI analysis. Get risk assessment, plain English explanation, and suggested improvements.