Specific Performance

equitable remedy a party may sue for that compels a party to perform as promised. As with any equitable remedy, specific performance is only available where an award for money damages would prove inadequate. It is often used in the area of real estate transactions where a buyer or seller, in particular, breaches the contract and refuses to perform. Because real estate is unique, a court may order specific performance. Specific performance is not available in personal service contracts, because of prohibitions against involuntary servitude.