Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Virginia

Loan/Partnership

Is a form written contract from Kinkos that has been signed by both parties, witnessed and notarized a LEGALLY BINDING contract? I financed a mortgage for properity that I am buying with a partner.


Asked on 2/25/08, 8:37 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Lee Berlik BerlikLaw, LLC

Re: Loan/Partnership

READ THIS FIRST: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop reading now.

RESPONSE: Assuming that the subject-matter of the contract is not illegal or against public policy, then YES, the contract is probably binding and enforceable.

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Answered on 2/27/08, 3:46 pm
Michael J. Seck The Law Office of Michael J. Seck, PLC

Re: Loan/Partnership

The requirements for a contract may very well be met by a form signed by the parties and notarized. You can create a contract if you were to hand write something on a cocktail napkin and have both parties sign the cocktail napkin. However, you may be setting yourself up for heartache down the road, was there valued for consideration? Was there a true bargained for exchange? What are your remedies upon breach? What happens if there are ambiguities in the form contract? Many cases go to trial because individuals are a penny wise and a pound foolish. Often times litigation attorneys such as myself have to get involved litigating the issues found in form contracts because they are not properly or clearly set out in the outset or they violate some rule of law or law unique to a particular area of law or jurisdiction. You should have a licensed attorney review any contract you intend to enter into to determine whether or not your interests are protected. You should also contact a business attorney to discuss whether a partnership or other vehicle might be better for your business venture.

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Answered on 2/25/08, 9:42 pm


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