What must an agreement comply with to be considered legally binding?

For an agreement to be considered legally binding, it is essential that it complies with the law. This means that the content and purpose of the agreement must not violate any statutory laws or regulations in effect. Legality is a fundamental requirement in contract law; if an agreement involves illegal activities or is against public policy, it cannot be enforced in a court of law.

Other factors, such as mutual consent and the presence of witnesses, may enhance the validity of the agreement but do not, by themselves, make an agreement legally binding. For example, while having all parties agree on terms is important, it doesn’t guarantee that the agreement is legal. Similarly, although a written document may provide evidence of the agreement and is often required for certain types of contracts, not all agreements must be in writing to be enforceable. The presence of a witness can add credibility but isn't a legal requirement for all agreements. Thus, the compliance with the law is the overarching principle that ensures an agreement can be adjudicated and enforced.