Verbal Agreements: Can I just “shake on it" - FAQ5

Verbal agreements (a statement of commitment by a university employee who has or appears to have authority to bind the institution) should be avoided.  Although a verbal contract may in certain instances be valid and enforceable, a written contract will help define expectations and prevent misunderstandings.  Agreement by Email Exchange.  Along the same lines, when engaging in e-mail communications regarding a proposed arrangement, individuals should be careful to avoid language that could be read as an immediate commitment.  Whether communicating orally or via email, university employees should be clear with the other party that the communications are only negotiations and any resulting agreement between the parties is dependent on the execution of a written contract that satisfies the university’s contracting requirements.