Two physicians, Devito and Burke, leased an office suite for five years and agreed to share the rent payments equally—even if one of them moved out or was unable to occupy his part of the premises as a result of disability or for any other reason. Two weeks later, Devito consulted a neurologist about his increasing absentmindedness and forgetfulness and discussed the possibility of giving up his practice. A few months later, Devito was diagnosed as suffering from presenile dementia (premature deterioration of the brain). The condition had been developing slowly for a matter of years, resulting in the progressive loss of memory and other mental abilities. The following year, Devito was so impaired mentally that he had to close his practice and retire. Burke later sued Devito for his share of the remaining rent under the lease. Devito claimed that he had been mentally incompetent at the time he signed the agreement to share the rent and hence the agreement was voidable at his option. Will Devito prevail in court? Discuss.
