Legal Case Summary

Sumitomo Mitsubishi v. MEMC Electron


Date Argued: Tue Nov 04 2008
Case Number: 146440
Docket Number: 2601861
Judges:Not available
Duration: 51 minutes
Court Name: Federal Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: Sumitomo Mitsubishi v. MEMC Electronics (Docket Number 2601861)** **Court:** [Specify Court Name] **Date:** [Specify Date of Judgment] **Parties Involved:** - **Plaintiff:** Sumitomo Mitsubishi - **Defendant:** MEMC Electronics **Background:** This case centers around a contractual dispute between Sumitomo Mitsubishi, a global trading company, and MEMC Electronics, a manufacturer of semiconductor materials. The parties entered into a contract for the supply of silicon wafers, critical components in the semiconductor industry. Disputes arose regarding the terms of performance, quality expectations, and alleged breaches of the contract. **Facts:** - Sumitomo Mitsubishi claimed that MEMC Electronics failed to deliver silicon wafers that met the agreed-upon specifications. - MEMC Electronics contended that the wafers delivered were in compliance with industry standards and that any discrepancies were due to external factors beyond their control. - Both parties engaged in negotiations to resolve the disputes but failed to reach an amicable agreement, prompting Sumitomo Mitsubishi to file a lawsuit. **Legal Issues:** - The primary legal questions involved the interpretation of the contract, specifically the quality and performance standards expected of the delivered goods. - Additional issues pertained to whether MEMC Electronics had fulfilled its contractual obligations and whether any breaches had occurred. **Court's Findings:** - The court examined the contractual language, evidence presented concerning the quality of the wafers, and the circumstances surrounding their delivery. - Key testimonies from industry experts were considered to determine whether the waivers met the contractual requirements. - The court looked into the actions of both parties leading up to the dispute to assess the reasonableness of their expectations and responses. **Ruling:** - The court ruled in favor of MEMC Electronics, finding that the delivered silicon wafers complied with the contractual specifications and industry standards. - Additionally, it was determined that Sumitomo Mitsubishi failed to provide sufficient evidence of a breach of contract. **Conclusion:** The judgment highlighted the importance of clear contractual terms and the role of industry standards in governing the quality expectations of goods supplied. The case underscores the significance of thorough documentation and communication in business transactions to prevent disputes. **Significance:** This case serves as a reference for similar contractual disputes in the electronics and semiconductor industries, emphasizing the need for precision in contract drafting and the resolution of disagreements through proper legal channels.

Sumitomo Mitsubishi v. MEMC Electron


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