Often yes — many oral contracts are enforceable. But some agreements (real estate, deals over a year, certain amounts) must be in writing, and verbal terms are far harder to prove.
A verbal agreement can be a valid, binding contract in many situations — the law doesn’t always require writing. However, there are important exceptions under the "statute of frauds": contracts for real estate, agreements that can’t be completed within a year, and sales of goods above a certain value generally must be in writing to be enforceable. Even when an oral contract is valid, the practical problem is proof — without a written record, it’s your word against theirs. That’s why getting key terms in writing, even a confirming email or text, is always wise.
Under the statute of frauds, typically real estate transfers, agreements that can’t be performed within a year, and sales of goods over a set amount, among others.
Through evidence: emails, texts, witnesses, partial performance, or payment records. Without documentation it becomes your word against the other party’s.
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