What Constitutes a Legal Document?

Certainly a document containing a seal and flamboyant signature appears legal, but is it? Not necessarily; the legality of the document depends on the type of document and attendant procedure. In some cases, an agreement scrawled on a napkin is legal. In other cases, a document lacking a judicial signature isn't worth the paper on which it's written.

Legally Binding

In essence, the word "legal" means "binding." A document is legal if the parties are held accountable to its contents.

State vs. Federal

Drafting a legal document isn't a "one size fits all" procedure. What is legal in one state may not hold up in another, and federal laws come into play as well.

Formality

A formal seal or signature is not always necessary. In contract law, many transactions need merely an offer and acceptance.

Check with the Courts

There are instances where a legal seal or signature is required; specific documents carry legal procedure (court orders, loan papers, for example).

Enforcement

The legality of a document governs it's enforceability. Failure to follow court procedure can render a document null and void.

Intentions

The intention of the parties must be clear. Even if a document is signed and sealed, it's only legal if all parties understand what they are signing.