Definition

1. Noun:
   • A formal written agreement: A "contract under seal" is a specific type of legal contract that is formally executed by being signed and having the seal (historically a wax seal, now often an impressed or printed formal mark) of the party or parties attached to it. This act of sealing traditionally signifies the solemn and deliberate nature of the agreement.

Usage

• This term is used primarily in formal, legal, and historical contexts to describe a contract that has been executed with a formal seal.
• It distinguishes such agreements from simple contracts, which may not require a seal. The presence of a seal can affect the legal enforceability and the limitation period for bringing a claim.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The deed to the property was a contract under seal, requiring the notary's official stamp.
  • In many jurisdictions, a contract under seal has a longer statute of limitations than a standard written agreement.

Advanced Usage

• "To execute under seal": The act of formally signing and applying a seal to a document to create a "contract under seal".
  • The corporation executed the bond under seal.
• The concept of a "seal" in modern law often refers to a formal indicator like the word "SEAL" or "L.S." (, meaning place of the seal) printed near the signature line, or an actual corporate seal.

Variants and Related Words

• Deed (n): A type of written instrument, often under seal, that conveys an interest, right, or property.
• Covenant (n): A formal and binding agreement or promise, frequently contained in a deed or contract under seal.
• Sealed Instrument (n): Another legal term for a formal document, such as a contract or deed, that has been executed with a seal.

Synonyms

• Formal contract: A contract executed with prescribed formalities.
• Specialty contract: A legal term, particularly in English law, synonymous with a contract under seal.

Related Phrases

• Under hand and seal: A traditional phrase indicating a document has been both signed ("under hand") and sealed.
  • The agreement was made under hand and seal by both parties.

Noun

1. a contract that is signed and has the (wax) seal of the signer attached