12 July 2023, Mumbai: Farmer in Saskatchewan Fined for Thumbs-Up Emoji Miscommunication
In a notable case from Canada, a farmer by the name of Chris Achter from Saskatchewan found himself facing a staggering fine of Rs 50,88,893 for his use of a thumbs-up emoji in response to a contract received via text message. Emojis have become an integral part of modern communication, but this incident serves as a reminder of the need for clear understanding and interpretation when employing these small digital images.
Flax Contract Miscommunication Results in Significant Fine for Canadian Farmer
The incident unfolded as Chris Achter was in negotiations with a potential buyer interested in purchasing 86 tons of flax at a rate of $12.73 per bushel. After the buyer called Achter, he sent a picture of the contract for the flax delivery in November and asked for verification. In response, Achter used a thumbs-up emoji, which the buyer understood as an agreement to the contract’s terms. However, Achter failed to fulfill the contract’s obligation to supply the flax until several months later, leading to a legal dispute.
The Role of Emojis in Legal Contracts: Canadian Farmer’s Fine
During the subsequent court proceedings, the buyer accused Achter of breaching the terms of the agreement. To substantiate their claim, they presented a snapshot of the text message exchange as evidence. Achter clarified that the thumbs-up emoji he used was simply intended to acknowledge receipt of the contract and did not signify acceptance or serve as his signature. Nevertheless, the judge ruled in favor of the buyer, highlighting the widespread use of the thumbs-up emoji to express approval.
Unconventional Signatures: Judge’s Interpretation of Emojis in Legal Context
Justice Keene, presiding over the case, recognized the unconventional nature of emojis as a means of communication but emphasized their potential to fulfill the two primary purposes of a signature: identifying the signer and indicating acceptance of a contract. The judge pointed out that Achter’s cell phone number provided the necessary identification, and the thumbs-up emoji, originating from Achter’s specific device, satisfied the signature requirement. Thus, despite its unorthodox nature, the emoji held weight as a symbol of confirmation.
Heavy Penalty Imposed on Canadian Farmer for Flax Contract Breach
Consequently, the judge ruled in favor of the buyer, and as a result, Chris Achter, the farmer from Saskatchewan, faced a substantial fine of approximately Rs 60 Lakh for breaching the terms of the flax contract. This case serves as a significant precedent regarding the interpretation and significance of emojis within legal agreements, emphasizing the need for clear communication and a thorough understanding of their implications.