When entering into an agreement, it is important to ensure that it is legally binding. This means that all parties involved are obligated to fulfill their respective roles and responsibilities as stipulated in the agreement. However, not all agreements are created equal, and some are more likely to be deemed legally binding than others.

The following are some of the most common types of agreements, along with an assessment of their legality:

1. Verbal Agreements

Verbal agreements are those that are made orally, without any written documentation. While verbal agreements are technically enforceable, they are difficult to prove in court. This is because there is no physical evidence to support the terms of the agreement. As a result, verbal agreements are generally considered to be the least likely to be deemed legally binding.

2. Written Agreements

Written agreements are those that are documented in writing, either on paper or electronically. They often include detailed terms and conditions, as well as signatures from all parties involved. Written agreements are much easier to prove in court than verbal agreements, as there is a physical document that outlines the terms of the agreement. As a result, written agreements are much more likely to be deemed legally binding.

3. Express Agreements

Express agreements are those that are explicitly stated in writing or verbally. These agreements are created when all parties involved explicitly state the terms of the agreement. Express agreements are usually created when parties sign a contract or a written agreement, or when they verbally agree to specific terms. Express agreements are typically considered to be legally binding, as all parties involved have explicitly agreed to the terms of the agreement.

4. Implied Agreements

Implied agreements are created when the actions of the parties involved suggest that there is an agreement in place, even if it is not explicitly stated. For instance, if you regularly pay for a service without any explicit agreement, it can be assumed that there is an implied agreement in place. Implied agreements are less common in the corporate world, but they can sometimes occur. Implied agreements may be deemed legally binding, depending on the specific circumstances involved.

In conclusion, when it comes to determining which agreement is most likely to be legally binding, written and express agreements are more likely to hold up in court. Verbal agreements and implied agreements are less likely to be deemed legally binding as they are often difficult to prove. As such, parties entering into an agreement should ensure that it is well-documented and explicitly states the terms and conditions of the agreement.