Statute of Frauds

A contract rule requiring certain contracts to be evidenced by a writing. Examples of contracts requiring a writing under the Statute of Frauds include contracts in which the consideration is marriage; contracts which are impossible to perform in one year; contracts involving interests in land; contracts by executors to be personally liable for the debts of an estate; contracts for the sale of goods of $500 or more; and contracts to act as a surety (i.e., to pay the debt of another).