What is the parol evidence rule?
The parol evidence rule is an important part of Mississippi contract law. The rule states that when a contract is written and signed, any evidence of any prior oral agreement between the parties is inadmissible in a court of law. This means that even if there was an oral agreement between the parties prior to the written contract, no one can use that agreement as evidence in court. The purpose of this rule is to protect both parties to the contract. It prevents one party from attempting to get out of fulfilling their obligations by claiming that some other obligation was created by the oral agreement. It also prevents one party from suing another for breach of contract based on an oral agreement that cannot be verified. The main takeaway from the parol evidence rule is that all contractual agreements should be written and signed when possible. If any part of the agreement is based on an oral agreement, all parties should make a record of the agreement and incorporate it into the written contract. This can ensure that everyone involved is clear about the terms of the contract and cannot be held liable for breach of contract based on the oral agreement.
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