This is especially important and helpful in service contracts. From the shade tree mechanic, whose contract consists of a soiled Work Order form purchased at the local business supply, to the multi-thousand dollar renovation project you have on your home, get it in writing if you can. If your contract is oral, what you must prove are the same things you would have put into your written contract if you had one. One last note on types of contracts. Some contracts must be in writing to be enforceable.
State law determines which ones.
Most states have adopted a Statute of Frauds in some form, named after the English statute of 1677. They require that to be enforceable, certain contracts must be in writing and signed by the person who should perform what is stated in the contract. They exist to prevent fraud or trickery in areas where ordinary citizens might easily be fooled. Real estate sales, employment, and other contracts that may not be performed in a year as well as prenuptial agreements are typical. If there is any question that your contract may fall into one of these categories, you can call the court clerk or call an attorney to discuss it for free.