What is the purpose of specific performance as a legal remedy?

The purpose of specific performance as a legal remedy is to compel a party to fulfill their contractual obligations. This remedy is generally applied in situations where monetary damages would not be sufficient to resolve a breach of contract. For instance, in cases involving unique goods or real estate, specific performance is used to ensure that the party who has defaulted on the agreement is required to complete the transaction as originally agreed.

Specific performance is particularly relevant when the subject matter of the contract is unique or irreplaceable, making it impossible or impractical for the aggrieved party to find an adequate substitute through financial compensation. By enforcing the original contract, specific performance ensures that the injured party receives exactly what was promised, helping to uphold the integrity of contractual agreements and providing equitable relief.