written agreement
Definition
A written agreement is a contract that both parties have put down on paper and signed, spelling out exactly what each side promises to do. Unlike a handshake deal or a verbal promise, a written agreement creates a physical record of the terms everyone agreed to, which makes it much easier to enforce if something goes wrong.
Example
If you hire a freelance designer to build your website for $2,000, a written agreement would spell out the deadline, the payment schedule, and exactly what the designer will deliver so there is no confusion later.
Watch Out
A written agreement does not have to be a fancy legal document to be binding, but vague or missing details can make it nearly impossible to enforce if the other party does not hold up their end of the deal.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.