Duhaime's Law Dictionary Laissez-faire Definition: French: leave alone. A theory of contract law that persons ought to have freedom of contract with minimal state or judicial interference. Ryan defines laissez faire as: “... that parties should have the utmost freedom in their contractual relations, with as little state intervention as was consistent with public order.” REFERENCES: Duhaime, Lloyd, Contract Law Duhaime, Lloyd, Legal Definition of Freedom of Contract Ryan, K. W., An Introduction to The Civil Law (Sydney: The Law Book Co. of Australia, 1962), pages 29-34 Categories & Topics: Duhaime's Contract Law Dictionary Always looking up definitions? Save time with our search provider (modern browsers only) If you find an error or omission in Duhaime's Law Dictionary, or if you have suggestion for a legal term, we'd love to hear from you!