Which type of contract must be in writing according to the Statute of Frauds?

The requirement for certain contracts to be in writing, as stipulated by the Statute of Frauds, primarily aims to prevent fraud and misunderstandings in significant transactions. Among various types of agreements, contracts related to the sale or conveyance of any interest in land are specifically mandated to be documented in writing. This includes not only contracts for the sale of land but also leases exceeding one year, easements, and any other agreements that give rise to interests in real property.

The rationale behind this requirement is rooted in the complexity and significance of land transactions, which often involve substantial financial stakes and the transfer of legal rights. Writing provides clear evidence of the terms and conditions agreed upon by the parties involved, helping to avoid disputes that could arise if the terms were ambiguous or purely verbal.

In contrast, while contracts involving personal property, contracts for services, and lease agreements for less than one year may have their own considerations and regulations, they are not uniformly required to be in writing under the Statute of Frauds. The lesser stakes or the nature of the agreements in these categories typically allows for verbal contracts to hold validity, although having them in writing is still a sound practice to ensure clarity and enforceability.