What is the main requirement of the Statute of Frauds regarding contracts?

The Statute of Frauds primarily requires that certain types of contracts, including those related to real estate, must be in writing to be enforceable. This legal doctrine aims to prevent fraudulent claims and misunderstandings by ensuring that there is a tangible record of the agreement. For real estate transactions, this is particularly important because these contracts often involve significant financial commitments and long-term obligations. Thus, having a written document is essential for clarity and as legal proof of the agreement between parties.

While some contracts can indeed be verbal, those governed by the Statute of Frauds explicitly need to be documented in writing to protect all parties involved. This helps ensure that the terms of the contract are clearly defined and can be referenced or upheld in a court of law if disputes arise. Other requirements, such as notarization or the presence of a witness, may apply in certain contexts but are not central to the Statute of Frauds itself.