Section 36 Mutual Mistake of Fact

• Library: Remedies 2006

The principal ground for reformation is a mutual mistake. It occurs when both parties have done what neither intended to do. Devino v. Starks, 132 S.W.3d 307, 310 (Mo. App. W.D. 2004); see alsoJ.E. Hathman, Inc. v. Sigma Alpha Epsilon Club,491 S.W.2d 261, 268 (Mo. banc 1973); King v. Riley, 498 S.W.2d 564, 566 (Mo. 1973). An action for reformation based on mutual mistake requires proof of three elements:

1. A preexisting agreement

2. The mistake

3. The mutuality of the mistake

Devino, 132 S.W.3d at...