Pierre Perret Wins Court Case Against Le Cherche Midi Over Unwritten Contract

The Reader Times desk 31 October 2026 Based on Livres Hebdo reporting

Engraved illustration of a writer’s study with books, a desk and warm window light. — Editorial illustration for The Reader Times.

The French singer‑songwriter Pierre Perret has won a legal battle against the publisher Le Cherche Midi, with the Court of Cassation ruling that an unsigned contract does not preclude proof of a rights transfer.

On 20 October 2016, Pierre Perret’s book Ma vie en vin was released by Le Cherche Midi without a signed contract between author and publisher. Perret subsequently sued the publisher for infringement and damages.

The Court of Cassation held that the author’s signed “bon à tirer” – a document confirming his participation in the book’s promotion – constituted an extrajudicial admission that could substitute for a formal contract.

Under French law, such a document can serve as evidence of a rights transfer, allowing the court to rule in Perret’s favour despite the absence of a written agreement.