What is an Enforceable Contract? Definition, Elements and Creation Guide

Contracts connect business transactions by delineating the parties' obligations, rights, and expectations. However, only some contracts are enforceable in a court of law. Understanding what makes a contract enforceable is crucial to ensuring that agreements are honored and disputes are minimized. 

This guide examines the essence of enforceable contracts, including their definition, elements, and the processes involved in their creation. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive grasp of how to craft contracts that are valid and legally binding.

What is an Enforceable Contract?

An enforceable contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties that the law recognizes and upholds. If one party fails to fulfill its obligations, the other party can seek legal recourse to enforce the contract. 

To be enforceable, a contract must meet specific legal requirements. When a contract is enforceable, both parties are legally obligated to comply with its terms, and failure to do so can result in legal consequences, including monetary damages or specific performance orders.

Next, we'll explore the detailed components contributing to a contract's enforceability.

How is a Contract Enforceable?

Several critical elements must be present to ensure an enforceable contract. These elements provide the foundation for the legality and validity of the agreement. Let’s go through each of the elements: 

1. Mutual Assent
   
   
   • Offer and Acceptance: For a contract to be enforceable, there must be a clear offer by one party and an unequivocal acceptance by the other. Both parties must agree to the same terms at the same time.
   • Meeting of the Minds: This implies that all parties have a mutual understanding and agreement on the terms and conditions of the contract. Without mutual assent, the contract may be deemed invalid.
2. Consideration
   
   
   • Something of Value: Each party must provide something of value in exchange for the other party's promise or performance. This could be money, goods, services, or a promise to refrain from a particular action.
   • Bargained-for Exchange: The consideration must result from a bargain between the parties, where each party's consideration is the reason for the other's.
3. Capacity
   
   
   • Legal Capacity: The parties entering the contract must have the legal capacity to do so. This means they must be of legal age, sound mind, and not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
   • Mental Impairment: Contracts involving parties with mental impairments may be deemed void or voidable, depending on the severity and impact on the person's ability to understand the contract.
4. Legality
   
   
   • Legal Purpose: The contract must have a lawful purpose. Contracts that involve illegal activities or are against public policy are unenforceable.
   • Public Policy: Contracts that violate public policy, such as agreements to commit a crime or engage in unethical behavior, are also unenforceable.
5. Proper Execution
   
   
   • Written Contract: While oral agreements can be enforceable, written contracts are preferred because they provide clear evidence of the agreed-upon terms.
   • Signatures: All parties involved must sign the contract to demonstrate their consent and commitment to the terms.

Are Digital Contracts Enforceable?

Yes, digital contracts are enforceable, provided they meet the same essential elements as traditional paper contracts. The legal framework for digital contracts has evolved significantly, especially with the widespread adoption of electronic signatures (e-signatures). 

According to the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA), e-signatures are legally recognized and enforceable in most jurisdictions. These laws ensure electronic contracts hold the same legal weight as their paper counterparts.

For more details on the legality of e-signatures, you can refer to resources such as the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act.

How to Create Enforceable Contracts Using Portant

Portant is a leading document automation software that simplifies the creation and management of enforceable contracts. By leveraging Portant, you can ensure that your contracts are comprehensive and legally binding.

• Pre-Built Templates: Portant offers a variety of pre-built Google Docs contract templates that include all the essential elements of a valid contract. These templates are designed to meet professional standards and can be customized to suit your specific needs. 

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• Customization: While the templates cover standard contractual elements, you can easily update or add specific terms based on the nature of your agreement. This flexibility ensures that your contracts are tailored to your unique requirements.
• E-Signature Functionality: Portant’s platform includes an easy-to-use e-signature function, allowing all parties to sign the contract digitally. This feature streamlines the contracting process and ensures that your digital contracts are enforceable under the law.

• Integration with Email: Portant lets you connect your email account to their platform, facilitating seamless contract workflows. You can send contracts for review, obtain signatures, and distribute the finalized enforceable contract directly through the platform.

Using Portant, you can improve your contracts' efficiency and legal standing, ensuring they are correctly executed and compliant with all legal requirements.ConclusionCrafting enforceable contracts is critical for anyone involved in business or legal transactions. You can create valid and legally binding agreements by understanding the key elements that make a contract enforceable and utilizing tools like Portant. Whether dealing with traditional written contracts or modern digital agreements, ensuring enforceability protects your interests and promotes smoother, more reliable business relationships.