Can a Verbal Agreement Be Changed?
Verbal agreements are legally binding contracts that are made orally instead of in writing. While they can be valid in some situations, verbal agreements are often disputed due to misunderstandings or a lack of evidence. So, if you have entered into a verbal agreement and need to change it, you may be wondering: can a verbal agreement be changed?
The short answer is yes, a verbal agreement can be changed, but it is not as straightforward as you might think. In general, changing the terms of a verbal agreement requires the consent of both parties. This means that if one party wants to change the agreement, they must obtain the agreement of the other party before doing so.
However, it is worth noting that verbal agreements are not always clear-cut. They are often subject to interpretation or can be influenced by outside factors that were not initially considered. Therefore, if you want to change a verbal agreement, it is important to consider the following:
1. Was the verbal agreement legally binding?
For a verbal agreement to be legally binding, it must meet certain criteria, including the agreement of both parties, an exchange of values, and a clear understanding of the terms. If the verbal agreement was not legally binding, then changing it may not be necessary or possible.
2. Was there any evidence of the verbal agreement?
In the absence of a written contract, evidence of the verbal agreement may be required to enforce it or changes to it. If there is no evidence of the verbal agreement, both parties may struggle to prove what was originally agreed on, or any changes that have been made.
3. Are there any legal implications of changing the agreement?
If the verbal agreement has a legal consequence, such as financial or contractual obligations, then changing it may have repercussions. This could include violating legal obligations or causing harm to one or both parties.
In conclusion, while a verbal agreement can be changed, it is not always straightforward. The process of changing a verbal agreement depends on various factors, such as whether it was legally binding and if there is any evidence of the agreement. Therefore, when considering changing a verbal agreement, it is essential to seek legal advice to ensure that the change does not have any negative legal implications.