Statute of Frauds
A common-law doctrine, codified in every US state, that requires certain categories of contracts — including those that cannot be performed within one year and contracts for the sale of real property — to be in writing and signed to be enforceable.
What it means
The Statute of Frauds bars enforcement of oral contracts in six traditional categories: contracts in consideration of marriage, contracts not performable within one year, contracts for the sale of land, contracts of executors to pay debts of the estate, contracts for the sale of goods over $500 (UCC § 2-201), and contracts of suretyship. Partial performance, written confirmations, and the merchant exception (UCC) can satisfy or override the writing requirement.
Primary sources
Read more
- What Makes a Contract Legally Binding? — Learn the five elements every legally binding contract must have — offer, acceptance, consideration, capacity, and legality — with real examples and jurisdiction notes.
- Lease Agreement Guide: What Every Landlord and Tenant Needs to Know (2026) — A lease agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord and tenant. Learn what clauses to include, how state laws differ, and how to avoid costly mistakes.