Which term describes a contract that the courts cannot enforce due to technical reasons?

• A. Executed contract
• B. Voidable contract
• C. Unenforceable contract
• D. Void contract

Answer: (C)

Unenforceable contracts are valid in substance but cannot be enforced by the courts because of a technical rule or formal requirement. The agreement exists and creates obligations, but a procedural rule—such as the statute of frauds requiring a written contract for certain transactions (like real estate) or other mandated formalities—prevents the court from giving relief. This is distinct from a void contract, which is invalid from the start, and from a voidable contract, which is initially valid but may be canceled by one party. It’s also different from an executed contract, where performance has already occurred and the agreement is generally enforceable.