Test: The Indian Partnership Act, 1932 - CA Foundation MCQ

The most important element in partnership is:
A: Business
- The partnership must have a common business purpose or objective.
- All partners should agree on the type of business they are engaged in.
B: Sharing of Profits
- Partnerships involve the sharing of profits generated by the business.
- The partners must agree on the distribution of profits among themselves.
C: Agreement
- Partnership agreements are essential to outline the rights and responsibilities of each partner.
- The agreement should cover various aspects such as capital contributions, profit sharing, decision-making, and dispute resolution.
D: Business to be carried on by all or any of them acting for all
- This element refers to the authority of partners to act on behalf of the partnership.
- It allows any partner to make decisions and enter into contracts on behalf of the partnership.
- All partners have the power to bind the partnership to legal obligations.
Conclusion:
The most important element in partnership is the agreement that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and objectives of the partners. However, all the elements mentioned (business, sharing of profits, and the authority to act on behalf of the partnership) are interconnected and essential for a successful partnership.

The maximum number of partners is mentioned in the Companies Act.
The Companies Act is a legislation that governs the formation, management, and dissolution of companies in India. It provides guidelines and regulations for various aspects of company operations, including the maximum number of partners that a company can have.
Here are the key points to understand:
1. The Companies Act:
- The Companies Act is a comprehensive legislation that regulates companies in India.
- It provides rules and regulations for the incorporation, management, and operation of different types of companies.
- The Act includes provisions related to the maximum number of partners in a company.
2. Maximum number of partners:
- The Companies Act specifies the maximum number of partners that a company can have.
- The specific limit may vary depending on the type of company.
- For example, a private company is generally limited to a maximum of 200 members, excluding employees and former employees who are also members.
- On the other hand, a public company has no such limit on the number of members.
3. Importance of maximum number of partners:
- The maximum number of partners is important as it determines the scope and size of a company.
- It helps in defining the legal structure and governance of the company.
- It also affects the ability of the company to raise capital, make decisions, and manage its operations.
In conclusion, the maximum number of partners is mentioned in the Companies Act, which is a legislation governing the formation and operation of companies in India. The Act specifies the maximum number of partners based on the type of company.

The answer is D: The collective name under which it carries on business.
Explanation:
A firm is an entity that carries out business activities. It can be a partnership, a corporation, or a sole proprietorship. The name of the firm refers to the collective name under which it conducts its business operations. Here are the reasons why option D is the correct answer:
Definition of a Firm:
- A firm is an organization or an association of persons who come together to carry out business activities and make a profit.
- It refers to the collective entity that engages in commercial or professional activities.
Explanation of the given options:
A: The Partners
- This option refers to the individuals who are part of the firm, but it does not represent the overall name of the firm itself.
B: The minors in the firm.
- This option is incorrect as it refers to the age group of individuals (minors) rather than the name of the firm.
C: The business under which the firm carries on business.
- While this option is partially correct, it does not encompass the complete concept. The business under which the firm operates is a part of its identity, but it does not represent the entire name of the firm.
D: The collective name under which it carries on business.
- This option is the correct answer as it encompasses the entire concept. The collective name refers to the overall name of the firm under which it conducts its business activities.
To summarize, a firm is identified by its collective name, which represents the entity as a whole and is used for conducting business operations.

Explanation:
The statement mentions that in the absence of agreement to the contrary, all partners are entitled to share profits equally. Let's break down the options and see why the answer is option D:
A: Not entitled to share profits
- This option contradicts the statement, which clearly states that partners are entitled to share profits.
B: Entitled to share in capital ratio
- This option suggests that partners share profits based on their capital contributions. However, the statement does not mention anything about capital ratio.
C: Entitled to share in proportion to their ages
- This option suggests that partners share profits based on their ages. However, the statement does not mention anything about age being a factor in profit sharing.
D: Entitled to share profits equally
- This option aligns with the statement, which states that partners are entitled to share profits. In the absence of any contrary agreement, partners share profits equally.
Conclusion:
Based on the given information, the correct answer is option D: Entitled to share profits equally.

A minor is:
- Not a partner of a firm: A minor is not legally allowed to enter into a partnership agreement or be a partner in a firm.
- Not a representative of the firm: A minor does not have the legal capacity to represent a firm in any official capacity.
- Not entitled to carry on the business of the firm: A minor cannot independently carry on the business activities of a firm as they lack the legal capacity to do so.
- Entitled to the benefits of the firm: Despite being unable to participate in the management or decision-making of a firm, a minor is entitled to receive the benefits or profits of the firm if they are a beneficiary.
In summary, a minor is not considered a partner, representative, or entitled to carry on the business of a firm. However, they may still receive the benefits or profits of the firm if they are a beneficiary.

Partnership at Will:
A partnership at will refers to a type of partnership in which there is no specific agreement regarding the duration or termination of the partnership. It is a flexible arrangement that allows partners to operate without a predetermined timeline.
Key Points:
- Partnership at will does not have any deed: A deed is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of a partnership. In a partnership at will, there is no specific deed governing the partnership.
- Partnership at will does not have any partner: This statement is incorrect. A partnership at will must have at least two or more partners involved in the business.
- Partnership at will does not provide for how long the business will continue: This is the correct answer. In a partnership at will, there is no agreement specifying the duration of the partnership. It can be dissolved at any time by any of the partners without any specific notice or reason.
- Partnership at will cannot be dissolved: This statement is incorrect. A partnership at will can be dissolved by any of the partners at any time, without any specific reason or notice.
Conclusion:
A partnership at will is a type of partnership that does not have a predetermined duration or termination agreement. It allows partners to operate without any specific timeline and provides flexibility in the management of the business.

Explanation:

An active partner is someone who actively participates in the business of the firm. They are not just a passive investor, but they actively contribute to the day-to-day operations and decision-making process of the business.

Key Points:
- An active partner takes part in the business of the firm.
- They are actively involved in the day-to-day operations and decision-making process.
- Active partners contribute their skills, knowledge, and efforts to the success of the business.
- They may have specific responsibilities or roles within the firm.
- Active partners actively share the profits of the business based on their ownership or partnership agreement.
Example:
Let's say there is a partnership firm that operates a restaurant. The active partners in this case would be those who are actively involved in running the restaurant. They may be responsible for tasks such as managing the staff, overseeing the kitchen operations, handling customer relations, and making financial decisions. These active partners actively contribute their time, skills, and efforts to ensure the success of the restaurant and share the profits based on their partnership agreement.
Therefore, option A is the correct answer as it accurately defines an active partner as someone who takes part in the business of the firm.

The rights of partners in a business firm include:
A: Take part in the business of the firm
- Every partner has the right to actively participate in the decision-making and operations of the business.
- They can contribute their ideas, skills, and knowledge to the growth and development of the firm.
B: Share exclusive profits
- Partners have the right to receive a share of the profits generated by the firm.
- The amount of profit each partner is entitled to is usually determined by the partnership agreement.
C: Use the property of the firm for personal purposes
- Partners have the right to use the assets and property owned by the firm for business purposes.
- However, the personal use of firm property may be subject to certain restrictions or conditions outlined in the partnership agreement.
D: Pay taxes
- Partners are obligated to pay their share of taxes on the profits earned by the firm.
- The tax liability of each partner is typically based on their respective share of the profits.
In conclusion, partners in a business firm have the right to actively participate in the business, share in the profits, use firm property for business purposes, and fulfill their tax obligations. These rights are essential for maintaining a fair and equitable partnership arrangement.

Each of the Partner is__________________
The correct answer is option A: Principals as well agents.
Here is a detailed explanation:
Definition of Partner:
A partner is an individual who shares ownership of a business with one or more people. Partnerships are a common form of business organization where two or more individuals come together to carry out a business venture.
Explanation of the options:
A: Principals as well agents - This means that each partner acts both as a principal, representing their own interests, and as an agent, representing the interests of the partnership as a whole. Partners have the authority to make decisions on behalf of the partnership and bind the partnership to contracts and obligations.
B: Only Agents of the firm - This option implies that partners are solely acting as agents of the firm and do not have any ownership or control over the business.
C: Only Representatives of the firm - This option suggests that partners are only representatives of the firm and do not have any decision-making authority or ownership in the business.
D: Only Co-partners of the firm - This option indicates that partners are only co-owners of the firm and do not have any other roles or responsibilities.
Explanation of the correct answer:
The correct answer is option A: Principals as well agents. Partners in a partnership have a dual role where they act as both principals, representing their own interests, and agents, representing the partnership as a whole. This means that they have the authority to make decisions on behalf of the partnership and bind the partnership to contracts and obligations.

Partner retirement in accordance with the Partnership Deed

A partner can retire from a partnership in accordance with the Partnership Deed, which is a legal agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership. The Partnership Deed may specify the conditions under which a partner can retire, including:

• Age of superannuation: The Partnership Deed may state that a partner can retire upon reaching a certain age, known as the age of superannuation. This age is typically determined by the partners and may vary depending on the agreement.


• Balance in the capital account: The Partnership Deed may specify that a partner can retire once the balance in their capital account reaches a certain amount. This ensures that the retiring partner receives a fair share of the partnership's assets.


• Consent of other partners: The Partnership Deed may require the consent of the other partners for a partner to retire. This ensures that the remaining partners have the opportunity to review and approve the retirement decision.


• Notice period: The Partnership Deed may also specify a notice period that a partner must give before retiring. This allows the partnership to make necessary arrangements and adjustments to accommodate the retiring partner's departure.


• Consequences of retirement: The Partnership Deed may outline the consequences of a partner's retirement, such as the distribution of assets, settlement of liabilities, and the admission of a new partner to replace the retiring partner.

It is important for partners to carefully review and adhere to the provisions outlined in the Partnership Deed when considering retirement from a partnership. The Partnership Deed serves as a legal document that governs the partnership's operations and ensures a smooth transition during the retirement process.

Expulsion of a partner
In order for a partner to be expelled from a partnership, certain conditions must be met. The correct answer is option A: Such expulsion is in good faith. Let's break down the details:
Conditions for the expulsion of a partner:
- In good faith: The expulsion of a partner must be done in good faith, meaning it is not based on personal vendettas or malicious intent.
- Majority agreement: The majority of the partners must agree on the expulsion. This ensures that the decision is not arbitrary and represents the collective will of the partnership.
- No opportunity for competition: The expelled partner should not be given the opportunity to start a competing business. This helps protect the interests and integrity of the partnership.
- Compensation: While compensation is not explicitly mentioned as a condition for expulsion, it is a common practice to provide some form of compensation to the expelled partner. This helps to alleviate any financial hardships caused by the expulsion.
In summary, a partner can be expelled if the expulsion is done in good faith, has the majority agreement of the partners, does not provide an opportunity for competition, and may involve compensation.

Effect of Death of Partner
The death of a partner in a firm can have various effects on the business. Here are the possible outcomes:
Dissolving the firm:
- In some cases, the death of a partner may lead to the dissolution of the entire firm.
- This usually occurs when there are no provisions in the partnership agreement to handle such situations, or if the remaining partners decide to end the business.
Continuance of the business:
- In other cases, the death of a partner may not necessarily result in the dissolution of the firm.
- If the partnership agreement includes provisions for the continuation of the business in the event of a partner's death, the remaining partners may choose to carry on with the business.
His heirs joining the firm:
- Another possibility is that the heirs of the deceased partner may be allowed to join the firm and take over the deceased partner's share.
- This depends on the partnership agreement and the willingness of the remaining partners to accept the heirs as new partners.
Computation of profits:
- Regardless of the outcome, when a partner dies, it is necessary to compute the profits of the firm up until the date of the partner's death.
- This is done to determine the share of the deceased partner's estate in the profits of the firm.
In the given scenario, the correct answer is A: Dissolving the firm.

Registration of a firm is Optional
Explanation:
- Registration of a firm refers to the process of officially establishing a business entity with the relevant government authorities.
- It is not compulsory for every firm to register, as there are certain types of businesses that can operate without formal registration.
- However, it is generally recommended to register a firm for various reasons, such as legal protection, credibility, access to government schemes and benefits, and ease of doing business.
- The decision to register a firm or not depends on several factors, including the type of business, scale of operations, legal requirements, and personal preferences of the business owner.
- In some jurisdictions, certain types of businesses may be required to register, such as those involved in specific industries or dealing with public funds.
- It is important to consult with legal and financial advisors to understand the specific registration requirements and implications for a particular firm.
- Non-registered firms may still be subject to certain legal obligations and liabilities, depending on the laws of the country or region where they operate.
- Overall, while registration of a firm is optional, it is generally advisable to consider the benefits and legal requirements before making a decision.

The answer is B: Set off
An unregistered firm cannot claim "set off" in relation to any transactions or debts. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Unregistered Firm: An unregistered firm refers to a business entity that has not completed the necessary legal procedures to be officially recognized by the government or relevant authorities.
2. Claim Set Off: "Set off" is a legal term that refers to the ability of a party to deduct or cancel out a debt owed to them by another party against a debt owed by them to that party. In simple terms, it allows the offsetting of mutual debts between two parties.
3. Legal Rights: In order to claim set off, a firm must have certain legal rights and standing. These rights are typically granted to registered and recognized entities that have complied with the necessary legal requirements.
4. Limitations of Unregistered Firms: Unregistered firms do not possess the legal recognition and standing that registered firms have. As a result, they do not have the same rights and privileges as registered entities.
5. Unenforceable Claims: Since an unregistered firm lacks legal recognition, it cannot enforce claims such as set off in relation to any transactions or debts. It does not have the legal authority to seek the offsetting of debts or deductions against amounts owed to them.
In conclusion, an unregistered firm cannot claim "set off" as it lacks the legal standing and recognition necessary to enforce such claims.

Explanation:

The correct answer is option C: Public notice is given. Here is a detailed explanation:

Liability of partners on dissolution:

When a partnership firm is dissolved, the partners are still liable for the debts and obligations of the firm until certain conditions are met.

Conditions for partners' liability to cease:

The partners' liability will cease once the following condition is fulfilled:

Public notice is given:

Once public notice of the dissolution is given, the partners' liability comes to an end. This means that the partners will no longer be personally liable for the debts and obligations of the firm.

The public notice acts as a formal communication to inform creditors, debtors, and the general public about the dissolution of the partnership.

After the public notice is given, the partners will not be held responsible for any new transactions or obligations of the dissolved firm.

Other options:

Let's also consider the other options mentioned:

Accounts are settled:

While settling the accounts is an important step in the dissolution process, it does not automatically release the partners from their liability. The partners' liability continues until public notice is given.

Partners' dues are paid off:

Paying off the partners' dues may be part of settling the accounts, but it alone does not release the partners from their liability. The partners' liability ceases only after public notice is given.

The registrar strikes off the name:

The registrar striking off the name is a separate process that typically happens after the dissolution is complete. It does not directly relate to the partners' liability. The partners' liability ceases after public notice is given.

Therefore, the correct answer is option C: Public notice is given.

Statement: Which of the following statements, about the registration of firm, is not true:

A: It must be done at the time of its formation.

B: It may be done at the time of formation.

C: It may be done before filing a suit against third party.

D: It may be done at any time after its formation.

Answer: A.

Explanation:

The registration of a firm refers to the process of legally establishing the firm as a separate legal entity. Here, we need to identify the statement that is not true.

A: It must be done at the time of its formation. (Not True)

This statement is not true because the registration of a firm is not mandatory at the time of its formation. It can be done at a later stage as well.

B: It may be done at the time of formation. (True)

This statement is true. The registration of a firm can be done at the time of its formation.

C: It may be done before filing a suit against a third party. (True)

This statement is true. The registration of a firm can be done before filing a suit against a third party.

D: It may be done at any time after its formation. (True)

This statement is true. The registration of a firm can be done at any time after its formation.

Therefore, the statement that is not true is A: It must be done at the time of its formation.

Explanation:
The registration of a firm is considered complete when the Registrar files the statement and makes entries in the Register of Firms. This is the accepted view and the correct answer is option B. Let's break down the process:
- Step 1: Application for registration
- A complete application for registration must be filed with the Registrar. This includes providing all the necessary documents and information required for registration.
- Step 2: Registrar's action
- Once the application is received, the Registrar reviews the documents and verifies the information provided.
- If everything is in order, the Registrar files the statement of the firm and makes entries in the Register of Firms.
- Step 3: Notice of registration
- After making the entries in the Register of Firms, the Registrar gives notice of the registration to all the partners of the firm.
- This serves as an official confirmation that the firm has been registered.
- Step 4: Court certification
- In certain cases, the statement and entries made by the Registrar may need to be recorded and certified by the court.
- This step ensures the authenticity and legal validity of the registration.
However, according to the accepted view, the registration of the firm is considered complete at Step 2 when the Registrar files the statement and makes entries in the Register of Firms. This marks the official registration of the firm and the completion of the registration process.

Disabilities of an Unregistered Firm:
- An unregistered firm refers to a partnership firm that is not registered under the Partnership Act, 1932. Such firms have certain disabilities or limitations compared to registered firms. The disabilities of an unregistered firm include:
1. It cannot file a suit against third parties: An unregistered firm cannot file a suit to enforce its rights against third parties. It means that if the firm enters into any contract or agreement, it cannot sue the other party for non-performance or breach of contract.
2. Its partners cannot file a suit against the firm: The partners of an unregistered firm also have a disability in that they cannot file a suit against the firm to enforce their rights. This means that if a partner has a dispute with the firm or other partners, they cannot approach the court for resolution.
3. It cannot claim a set-off exceeding Rs. 100: Set-off refers to the adjustment of mutual debts between two parties. In the case of an unregistered firm, it cannot claim a set-off exceeding Rs. 100. This limitation restricts the firm's ability to offset its debts and credits in a significant way.
Not a Disability:
- It cannot be sued by a third party: This statement is incorrect. An unregistered firm can still be sued by a third party for any disputes or claims arising out of its business activities. The fact that it is unregistered does not exempt it from legal liabilities or being subject to legal actions.
In conclusion, the correct answer is D: It cannot be sued by a third party. An unregistered firm can be sued by a third party, but it has disabilities in terms of filing suits against third parties, partners not being able to sue the firm, and limitations on claiming set-offs exceeding Rs. 100.

Right of a partner that cannot be claimed as a matter of right:
- Right to receive remuneration.
- A partner does not have an inherent right to receive remuneration for their participation in the partnership. The distribution of profits and the determination of partner salaries or wages are usually agreed upon in the partnership agreement or based on the partner's capital contribution.
- Remuneration can be negotiated and agreed upon between the partners, but it is not an automatic entitlement.
- The absence of a right to receive remuneration does not mean that partners cannot be compensated for their work or services. It simply means that it is not a guaranteed right and is subject to agreement or negotiation between the partners.
- Right to take part in business.
- Partners generally have the right to participate in the management and decision-making of the partnership.
- This right allows them to contribute to the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the business.
- It is an essential aspect of being a partner and is usually outlined in the partnership agreement.
- Right to have access to account books.
- Partners have the right to access and inspect the partnership's account books and records.
- This right ensures transparency and allows partners to monitor the financial health and performance of the business.
- It also enables them to verify the accuracy of financial statements and ensure compliance with legal and contractual obligations.
- Right to share profits.
- Partners are entitled to a share of the profits generated by the partnership.
- The specific allocation of profits may be determined by the partnership agreement or based on the partner's capital contribution or agreed-upon percentages.
- This right reflects the financial benefits that partners receive in return for their investment and participation in the partnership.

In summary, the right that a partner cannot claim as a matter of right is the right to receive remuneration. While partners can be compensated for their work or services, it is not an automatic entitlement and is subject to agreement or negotiation between the partners.

The acts that are not included in the implied authority of a partner are:
- To enter into partnership on behalf of the firm: A partner does not have the authority to bring in new partners without the consent of the existing partners. This decision typically requires the unanimous consent of all partners.
The acts that are included in the implied authority of a partner are:
- To buy or sell goods on accounts of partners: Partners have the authority to buy or sell goods on behalf of the firm, as this is a common activity in the normal course of business.
- To borrow money for the purposes of the firm: Partners can borrow money on behalf of the firm, as it is often necessary to secure funding for the operations and growth of the business.
- To engage a lawyer to defend actions against the firm: Partners can hire a lawyer to defend the firm in legal actions, as this is essential to protect the interests of the partnership.
It is important for partners to clearly define the scope of their authority in a partnership agreement to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts in the future.

Partners' Liability by Holding Out

The liability of partners by holding out refers to the situation where a partner who has retired or is no longer actively involved in the firm is still held liable for the firm's obligations because they have not given public notice of their retirement or cessation of involvement. In this scenario, the question asks which partner is not liable by holding out, even if public notice of retirement is not given. The correct answer is option D, which includes both the sleeping partner and the representative of a deceased partner.

Explanation:

Let's analyze the liability of each partner in this scenario:

• Active Partner: An active partner is someone who is currently actively involved in the firm's operations. They have a duty to inform the public about any changes in the partnership, including their retirement. If an active partner fails to give public notice of their retirement, they can be held liable by holding out.



• Sleeping Partner: A sleeping partner, also known as a dormant partner or a silent partner, is someone who contributes capital to the firm but does not actively participate in its management or operations. Since they are not actively involved, they are not required to give public notice of their retirement. Therefore, a sleeping partner is not liable by holding out even if they do not give public notice of retirement.



• Representative of Deceased Partner: If a partner passes away, their representative (such as an executor or administrator of their estate) may step in to manage the partner's interest in the firm. The representative of a deceased partner is not liable by holding out, even if they do not give public notice of their retirement.

Therefore, both the sleeping partner and the representative of a deceased partner are not liable by holding out, even if public notice of retirement is not given.

Explanation:
The correct answer is B: He can become a full-fledged partner in an existing firm.
Reason:
Here are the explanations for each statement:
A: He cannot become a full-fledged partner in a new firm
- This statement is true. A minor cannot become a full-fledged partner in a new firm because they are not of legal age to enter into a legally binding partnership agreement.
B: He can become a full-fledged partner in an existing firm
- This statement is not true. A minor cannot become a full-fledged partner in an existing firm because they are not of legal age to enter into a legally binding partnership agreement.
C: He can be admitted only to the benefits of any existing firm.
- This statement is true. A minor can be admitted to the benefits of an existing firm, which means they can receive a share of the profits or benefits from the partnership but they cannot be held personally liable for the firm's debts.
D: He can become a partner on becoming a major.
- This statement is true. Once a minor becomes a major (reaches the legal age of majority), they can become a full-fledged partner in a firm.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: He can become a full-fledged partner in an existing firm.

The reconstitution of the firm takes place in case:

• Admission of a partner: When a new partner is added to the firm, it leads to the reconstitution of the firm. The existing partnership agreement may need to be modified or a new agreement may need to be created.


• Retirement of a partner: If a partner decides to retire from the firm, it results in the reconstitution of the firm. The remaining partners may need to make adjustments to the partnership agreement and redistribute profits and responsibilities.


• Expulsion of a partner: In the case of a partner being expelled from the firm due to misconduct or other reasons, the firm undergoes reconstitution. The remaining partners may need to revise the partnership agreement and make necessary changes to ensure the smooth functioning of the firm.


• Death of a partner: When a partner passes away, the firm goes through reconstitution. The partnership agreement needs to be reviewed and amended, and the deceased partner's share of profits and assets need to be settled.


• All of the above: The reconstitution of the firm can happen in any of the mentioned cases - admission, retirement, expulsion, or death of a partner.

Overall, the reconstitution of the firm is necessary whenever there is a change in the partnership structure due to the addition, withdrawal, or expulsion of partners, or due to the unfortunate event of a partner's death. The purpose of reconstitution is to ensure proper adjustments are made to the partnership agreement and to maintain the smooth functioning of the firm.

Admitting a new partner in a firm:
- A new partner can be admitted in a firm with the consent of all the partners. This means that every existing partner must agree to admit a new partner.
- The consent of all the partners is required to ensure that there is unanimous agreement among the existing partners regarding the admission of a new partner.
- This requirement helps in maintaining the stability and harmony within the firm and ensures that all partners are on board with the decision.
- The consent of all the partners also helps in avoiding any potential conflicts or disagreements in the future regarding the admission of a new partner.
- The decision to admit a new partner is a significant one as it involves sharing profits, liabilities, and responsibilities. Therefore, it is important for all partners to be involved in the decision-making process.
Other options:
- Simple majority of partners: This means that more than half of the partners agree to admit a new partner. However, this option is not applicable in this case as the question specifies that the consent of all the partners is required.
- Special majority of partners: This means that a specific percentage or number of partners agree to admit a new partner. Again, this option is not applicable as the question specifies that the consent of all the partners is required.
- New partner only: This option is not valid as the question clearly states that the consent of all the partners is required, indicating that the decision must involve all existing partners.
In conclusion, a new partner can be admitted in a firm with the consent of all the partners. This ensures unanimous agreement and helps in maintaining stability and harmony within the firm.

Retirement of a Partner in a Firm:
There are several ways in which a partner can retire from an existing firm. The options include:
1. With consent of all partners:
- The partner can retire if all the other partners agree to the retirement.
- This usually happens when there is a unanimous decision among the partners.
- It is important to have the consent of all partners to ensure a smooth transition.
2. As per express agreement:
- The partnership agreement may specify the conditions and procedures for retirement.
- The partner can retire according to the terms agreed upon in the partnership agreement.
- This can include a notice period, distribution of assets, and other relevant provisions.
3. By written notice in partnership at will:
- If the partnership is at will, which means there is no fixed term specified in the partnership agreement, a partner can retire by providing a written notice to the other partners.
- The notice period may vary depending on the agreement or applicable laws.
4. All of the above:
- In some cases, all the mentioned options may apply.
- The partner can retire with the consent of all partners, as per the express agreement, or by providing a written notice in a partnership at will.
In conclusion, a partner may retire from an existing firm with the consent of all partners, as per the express agreement, or by providing a written notice in a partnership at will. It is important to follow the procedures and conditions outlined in the partnership agreement to ensure a smooth transition.

Explanation:
The statement states that a partner may be expelled from the firm on the fulfillment of the condition that the expulsion power is exercised. The question asks which of the given options is true regarding the conditions for expulsion. Let's analyze each option:
A: As given by express contract
- This means that the conditions for expulsion are explicitly stated in the partnership contract. If the partnership agreement includes provisions for expulsion, then a partner may be expelled based on those conditions.
B: By majority of partners
- This means that a partner may be expelled if a majority of the partners agree to it. In some partnership agreements, the power to expel a partner may be granted to the majority of the partners.
C: In absolute good faith
- This means that the power to expel a partner should be exercised in absolute good faith. Expulsion should not be based on personal biases or ulterior motives but should be in the best interest of the firm.
D: All of the above
- This option states that all of the above conditions (express contract, majority of partners, absolute good faith) are true regarding the conditions for expulsion.
Conclusion:
Based on the analysis, it can be concluded that the correct answer is option D: All of the above. The conditions for expulsion may vary depending on the partnership agreement, but generally, they are based on the express contract, majority of partners, and the requirement of acting in absolute good faith.

Partnership Firm Dissolution:
Dissolution is the process of bringing an end to a partnership firm. There are various reasons that can lead to the dissolution of a partnership firm. Let's discuss the options given in the question and determine which one(s) are correct.
A: All partners have become insolvent:
- If all partners become insolvent, it means they are unable to pay their debts.
- Insolvency of all partners can lead to the dissolution of a partnership firm.
- This option is a valid reason for the compulsory dissolution of a partnership firm.
B: Firm's business has become unlawful:
- If the business of the partnership firm becomes unlawful due to changes in laws or regulations, it can lead to the dissolution of the firm.
- Operating an unlawful business is not legally acceptable, and therefore, the partnership firm may be compulsorily dissolved.
- This option is also a valid reason for the compulsory dissolution of a partnership firm.
C: The fixed term has expired:
- A partnership firm can be formed for a fixed term as mentioned in the partnership agreement.
- If the fixed term mentioned in the agreement expires, it does not compulsorily lead to the dissolution of the firm.
- The partners may choose to continue the partnership by renewing the agreement or dissolve the firm if they wish to do so.
- This option alone does not lead to compulsory dissolution.
D: In cases (a) and (b) only:
- This option is the combination of options A and B.
- As discussed earlier, both options A and B are valid reasons for the compulsory dissolution of a partnership firm.
- Therefore, option D is the correct answer.
In conclusion, a partnership firm is compulsorily dissolved when all partners become insolvent or when the firm's business becomes unlawful. The fixed term expiration does not necessarily lead to compulsory dissolution unless the partners decide to dissolve the firm. Therefore, option D, "In cases (a) and (b) only," is the correct answer.

Grounds for dissolution of a firm:
There are several grounds on which a partner may apply to the court for dissolution of the firm. These grounds include:
1. Insanity of a partner:
- If a partner becomes mentally incapable of carrying out their duties and responsibilities, it can be a valid ground for dissolution.
- The court may dissolve the firm if it is determined that the partner's insanity makes it impossible to continue the business.
2. Misconduct of a partner:
- If a partner engages in misconduct that is detrimental to the firm or other partners, dissolution may be sought.
- Misconduct can include fraudulent activities, breach of fiduciary duty, or any other actions that harm the interests of the firm.
3. Perpetual losses in business:
- If the firm is consistently incurring losses and it becomes financially untenable to continue the business, dissolution may be necessary.
- The court may decide to dissolve the firm to protect the interests of the partners and creditors.
4. All of the above:
- It is important to note that partners may apply for dissolution based on any combination of the above grounds.
- If a partner can prove that any of these grounds exist, the court may order the dissolution of the firm.
In conclusion, a partner may apply to the court for dissolution of the firm on the grounds of insanity of a partner, misconduct of a partner, perpetual losses in business, or a combination of these grounds. The court will consider the evidence presented and make a decision based on the best interests of the partners and the firm.

Partnership at Will
In a partnership agreement where the partnership deed does not specify the duration or determination of the partnership, it is referred to as a partnership at will. This type of partnership is characterized by the following:
1. No fixed term: The partnership does not have a predetermined duration. It can continue indefinitely until one or more partners decide to dissolve it.
2. No specific conditions for termination: The partnership can be dissolved by any partner at any time, without the need for specific conditions or reasons.
3. Flexibility: Partners have the freedom to enter or exit the partnership without restrictions.
4. Lack of formal agreement: Since the partnership deed does not provide for the duration or determination of the partnership, it may not include other important provisions commonly found in partnership agreements.
5. Default rules apply: In the absence of specific provisions in the partnership deed, the partnership will be governed by default rules set by the applicable partnership laws in the jurisdiction.
6. Risk and uncertainty: The partners may face uncertainty about the continuation of the partnership and the division of assets and liabilities in case of dissolution.
7. Need for clear communication: In a partnership at will, it is crucial for partners to have open and transparent communication to ensure alignment and avoid misunderstandings.
In conclusion, when a partnership agreement does not specify the duration or determination of the partnership, it is called a partnership at will. This type of partnership allows for flexibility but also carries the risk of uncertainty.

Explanation:
A partnership at will refers to a partnership agreement where the duration of the partnership is not fixed. It means that the partnership can continue for an indefinite period of time until any of the partners decides to dissolve it.
The key characteristics of a partnership at will are as follows:
1. Duration not fixed: In a partnership at will, there is no predetermined or fixed duration for the partnership. It can continue for as long as the partners wish to carry on the business together.
2. Can be dissolved at any time: Since the duration is not fixed, any partner in a partnership at will has the right to dissolve the partnership at any time by giving notice to the other partners. No specific reason or event is required for dissolution.
3. Can be dissolved only on the happening of an event: This statement is incorrect as it contradicts the concept of a partnership at will. A partnership at will can be dissolved at any time without the occurrence of a specific event.
Based on the above explanation, the correct answer is D: 1 & 3, as a partnership at will is characterized by a duration not fixed and can be dissolved at any time.