As a copy editor, it is important to have a firm understanding of legal terminology and concepts, especially when it comes to contracts. One common topic that often arises in contract law is the enforceability of agreements. In this article, we will explore the question of “which of the following contract is not legally enforceable?” through a multiple choice question.

Multiple Choice Question: Which of the following contract is not legally enforceable?

A. A verbal agreement between two parties

B. A written agreement that is signed by both parties

C. An agreement made under duress or coercion

D. A contract that is missing essential terms

Answer: D. A contract that is missing essential terms

Explanation:

To understand why option D is the correct answer, it is important to first define what a contract is. A contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties that creates an obligation to do or not do a specific action. For a contract to be legally enforceable, it must meet certain requirements, commonly referred to as the elements of a contract. These elements include:

1. Offer: One party makes a proposal or offer to another party.

2. Acceptance: The other party accepts the proposal or offer.

3. Consideration: Both parties exchange something of value, such as money, goods, or services.

4. Capacity: Both parties must be legally competent to enter into a contract.

5. Legality: The contract must be for a legal purpose.

If any of these elements are missing, the contract may not be legally enforceable. In the case of option D, a contract that is missing essential terms would be considered incomplete and therefore unenforceable. Essential terms refer to key details such as the subject matter of the contract, the price, and the timeline for performance. Without these essential terms, the contract cannot be enforced because there is no clear understanding of what the parties agreed to.

It is important to note that option A, a verbal agreement between two parties, can be legally enforceable if all the elements of a contract are present. However, verbal agreements can be difficult to prove in court, which is one reason why it is often recommended that contracts be in writing. Option B, a written agreement that is signed by both parties, is typically the most reliable form of contract because it provides clear evidence of the agreement. Option C, an agreement made under duress or coercion, is also not legally enforceable because it is not a voluntary agreement.

In conclusion, the correct answer to the question of “which of the following contract is not legally enforceable?” is D, a contract that is missing essential terms. As a copy editor, it is important to have a basic understanding of contract law and legal terminology to ensure that any written materials are accurate and legally sound.