Statute of Frauds
The Statute of Frauds is a legal doctrine requiring certain types of contracts to be in writing and signed to be enforceable, intended to prevent fraud and perjury in contract disputes.
What it means
Contracts typically covered by the Statute of Frauds include agreements for the sale of real property, contracts that cannot be performed within one year, contracts for the sale of goods over $500 (UCC Article 2), contracts in consideration of marriage, and guaranty agreements. Both UETA and ESIGN have confirmed that electronic signatures satisfy the 'signed in writing' requirement of the Statute of Frauds for covered contracts.
Why it matters for e-signatures
Many of the most important business agreements fall under the Statute of Frauds. Using SignOwl ensures these agreements are both in writing and properly signed, satisfying the requirement in a legally recognized electronic form.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Does an e-signature satisfy the Statute of Frauds?
Yes. Both UETA and the ESIGN Act explicitly state that electronic signatures satisfy writing and signature requirements, including those imposed by the Statute of Frauds.
What happens if a Statute of Frauds contract is not signed?
An oral or unsigned contract within the Statute of Frauds is generally unenforceable, though courts recognize limited exceptions such as partial performance or detrimental reliance.
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