Which of the following will not cause the automatic dissolution of a general partnership?

• A. Death of a partner
• B. Insolvency of a partner
• C. When the partnership business becomes unlawful
• D. Insanity of a partner

Answer: (D)

In a general partnership, automatic dissolution happens when events strike at the partnership’s ability to continue operating, such as the death of a partner, the insolvency of a partner, or the business becoming unlawful. These situations directly affect who can contribute to and manage the partnership, so dissolution by operation of law or by the terms of the agreement is typically triggered. Insanity of a partner, while serious, does not automatically dissolve the partnership. The remaining partners can often carry on the business, and the insane partner’s interest can be managed by a guardian or bought out, depending on the partnership agreement and applicable law. Only if the agreement specifically provides for dissolution upon incapacity or a court orders dissolution would that event cause automatic termination. Therefore, insanity of a partner is not an automatic dissolution event.