Legal Definitions - verbal act

Definition: A verbal act is an action performed through the use of words, either spoken or written. It can also refer to a statement that has legal significance, such as the terms of a will.

Examples:

• A person making a promise to do something
• A witness testifying in court
• A lawyer drafting a legal document

These examples illustrate how words can be used to perform an action or create a legal effect. For instance, when a person makes a promise, they are performing a verbal act that creates an obligation to fulfill that promise. Similarly, when a lawyer drafts a legal document, they are using words to create a legally binding agreement.