Contract over Text Messages

[ohoh]

If you agree a deal over a txt message how legal is that? Is it a legal contract or does it mean nothing until its in writing and signed?

 

[Towger]

Did they stick their name on the end of the text message? There is some thought that under Irish law (Digital signatures?? Signed into law by Bertie when Bill Clinton was visiting Gateway!) if you sign your (work etc) emails then these hold the same legal standing as a written a signed letter.

I am sure there are some legal eagles here who know more about it.

 

[Vanilla]

Unless it was a property contract, then it's quite possible a text could form the basis of a contract. Many contracts can be verbal in any case. Depends on the circumstances and what was agreed.

 

[mmclo]

The basic four elements of a contract are

Offer
Acceptance
Intention to create legal relations
Consideration (usually money! not changed hands but set out)

Although it can be more complicated these are they key features

 

[ohoh]

Unless it was a property contract, then it's quite possible a text could form the basis of a contract. Many contracts can be verbal in any case. Depends on the circumstances and what was agreed.

it was a property contract, i dont think it should stand up in court though as its not really a hard copy of a contract

 

[Vanilla]

Possibly not, but was there an element of specific performance. Did either party rely on the contract to their financial detriment? Did either party occupy or alter the property on foot of the contract? Was any money exchanged? All elements will be looked at on their own merits.