Street Law: A Course in Practical LawChapter 23:
ContractsCases and ResourcesElements of a Contract
Minors and Contracts
Written and Oral Contracts
Illegal Contracts
Breach of Contract Elements of a Contract
FindLaw: What Is a Contract?
Read this explanatory article with examples to gain a better understanding of what a contract is and how a contract is formed. Elements of an Oral Contract
Oral contracts are binding in many cases. Read the elements of an oral contract and learn how an oral contract is formed. How do courts treat oral contracts? Contract for Buying a Puppy
Examine this sample contract for buying a puppy from a breeder. What does the contract promise that each party will do? Try to identify each element of a contract in this sample. Back to Top Minors and Contracts
Defining Legal Capacity
In order to enter a legal contract, both parties must have legal capacity. What is legal capacity, and how to courts assess if a contracting party has it? Although minors usually do not have legal capacity, when can a minor legally be bound by a contract? Use this accessible site, which includes student-friendly videos, to answer these questions and more. The Age of Majority
Once a minor reaches the age of majority, he or she can enter into contracts. Generally, a person must be 18 years old to enter into a contract. How does this age requirement compare to the age requirements for other activities? The Emancipated Minor
Even if you are a minor, if you are legally emancipated, you may be bound by a contract. Read more about emancipation. Can you think of a reason why emancipated minors are permitted to enter into a legal contract? Policing the Bargain
Explore another explanation of why minors are not allowed to enter into contracts. What other groups are treated similarly? What are the reasons this article gives for protecting certain groups? Back to Top Written and Oral Contracts
The Statute of Frauds
Oral contracts can be enforceable. However, there are certain times when a written contract is required in order to be enforceable. When a written contract is required, the Statute of Frauds is involved. Read a short explanation of the Statute of Frauds and identify the specific times when an oral contract will not be enforceable. Think about the policy reasons behind the Statute of Frauds. Back to Top Illegal Contracts
Unfair or Illegal Contracts
Explore a description and examples of illegal contracts. Note the differences between types of illegal contracts and who is being protected in each situation. Back to Top Breach of Contract
Breach of Contract
When one party fails to perform on a contract, the contract has been breached. Read this summary of breach of contract and the different types of damages available to the non-breaching party. Damages
Explore this description of the remedies that could be awarded when someone is sued for nonperformance or breach of contract. Why would a plaintiff ask for one type of damages over another? Back to Top  | 
