What is the Parol Evidence Rule?

A key part of understanding why an integration clause is important is understanding what the parol evidence rule is. What is the Parol Evidence Rule? Generally speaking, the parol evidence rule bars (or keeps out) extrinsic evidence of a prior or contemporaneous agreement.  In English, this means that once parties to a contract sign and agree to the terms of the contract, the parol evidence rule will keep the parties to the agreement from trying to submit...

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What is an Integration Clause in a contract?

An integration clause (also known as a merger clause or an entire agreement clause) is found in most contracts and simply provides that the agreement or contract between the parties is the final and complete understanding between the parties, and supersedes all prior negotiations, agreements, or understandings on the subject. The typical integration clause will say something like this: This Agreement is the entire agreement between the parties in connection with the subject matter of...

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