What happens to the rights under an old contract in a novation?

In the context of novation, the correct understanding is that the rights under an old contract are effectively terminated as a new contract is created between the original party and a new party. This process not only replaces the old obligation but also releases the original party from any rights and obligations under the previous contract.

When novation occurs, it signifies a complete substitution of one of the parties in a contract, and this replacement means that the original contract ceases to exist. Therefore, the rights held under the older agreement are indeed terminated as the new party steps in. This fresh start allows all parties to delineate their current obligations and rights clearly without any ties to the earlier contract.