Question 1

Is a contract valid if only one party signs?

Accepted Answer

No. A contract requires all parties to execute it. If you sign but the other party doesn't, there's no binding agreement. You've made an offer, but there's no acceptance. Don't start performing work based on a contract that hasn't been fully executed — you're doing it at your own risk.

Question 2

Does execution require a physical signature?

Accepted Answer

Not anymore. Electronic signatures are legally valid in the U.S. (ESIGN Act), EU (eIDAS), and most other jurisdictions. DocuSign, HelloSign, and even a typed name on an email can constitute execution in many cases. The key is proving the signer intended to sign and had authority to do so.

Question 3

What's a partially executed contract?

Accepted Answer

It means some but not all parties have signed. A partially executed contract isn't binding — it's just an offer waiting for the remaining signatures. Don't confuse this with a fully executed contract where some obligations have been partially performed.

Question 4

Can you execute a contract by email?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes. Courts have held that typing your name at the bottom of an email with intent to agree to terms can constitute execution. But it's risky — it's harder to prove intent and authority. Use a proper e-signature platform for anything important.

Question 5

What happens if the execution date and effective date are different?

Accepted Answer

The execution date is when you signed. The effective date is when the terms start. If you sign on March 1 but the effective date is April 1, you're bound by the contract from March 1 (you can't back out), but the actual obligations don't begin until April 1. Pay attention to both dates.

Execution

Definition

In Practice

Common in these contract types

Related terms

Frequently asked questions about execution

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