Legal Challenges in Ascertaining the Will of Parties in Smart Contracts
Annotatsiya
Smart contracts, self-executing programs on blockchain platforms, are transforming how contractual obligations are expressed and enforced. Their adoption presents complex legal challenges, particularly in ascertaining the true will of contracting parties. This paper explores doctrinal and practical difficulties in determining intent within smart contracts, examining the transformation of the autonomy of will, the legal nature of smart contracts, the expression and proof of consent, and judicial and regulatory developments. Special emphasis is placed on Uzbekistan, where legal infrastructure remains underdeveloped. Through comparative analysis and authoritative academic sources, the article proposes solutions such as hybrid contractual models, legal recognition of smart contracts as electronic transactions, and standardized frameworks to ensure fairness and enforceability.