Contingency

! An event which may happen; a possibility. A fortuitous event which comes without design, foresight, or expectation. A remainder which depends upon an uncertainty is a "contingent" remainder. An expense which depends upon some future uncertain event is a " contingent " expense.'' " Contingencies," in an estimate of expenses, means expenses not yet ascertained, as yet uuimown, uncertain, such as may or may not he incurred." Contingency with a double aspect. Occurs where remainders are so limited that one is a substitute for the other, in the event of the latter failing, and not in derogation of the latter.' As, a grant to A for hfe, and if he have a son, then to the son in fee, and if no son, then to B. Contingent. Possible; liable to occur; dependent upon an uncertainty: as, contingent or a contingent — damage, demand or liability, devise or legacy, estate or interest, fee or compensation, remainder, use, qq. v. Applied to a use, remainder, devise, bequest, or other legal right or interest, imp Ues that no present right exists, that whether a right ever will exist depends upon a futm*e uncertain event.* An estate will not be held contingent unless decided terms are tised, or it is necessary to infer that a con- ' tingency was meant to carry out other parts of the wm.s As a rule, contingent interests are assignable, devisable, and descendible.'

See also Absolute; Aftee; Cketain; Then; Upon, 2; When.