What does duress refer to in legal terms?

Duress in legal terms specifically refers to situations where an individual is subjected to unlawful pressure or threats that compel them to act against their will. This concept is crucial in contract law, as it can render a contract voidable since genuine consent to the agreement was not obtained due to the coercion experienced. When a party enters into a contract under duress, their ability to freely agree to the terms is compromised, which is why the law recognizes such situations.

The context surrounding other options adds clarity to why they do not correctly define duress. For instance, voluntary acceptance of contract terms suggests a free will agreement, which contradicts the very nature of duress. Legal constraints protecting individuals from coercion might relate to laws against duress, but they do not define what duress itself means. Additionally, treating duress as a method of negotiating contract terms suggests a lawful and consensual approach, which is antithetical to the concept of being compelled against one's will. Thus, the focus on unlawful constraints that drive someone to act contrary to their free choice distinctly characterizes duress in the legal context.