Legal Definitions - whereas clause

Definition: A whereas clause is a statement in a legal document that provides background information or context for the main purpose of the document. It is often used in preambles or recitals to explain the reasons or motivations behind the document's creation. Example 1: "Whereas, the parties have agreed to enter into this contract for the sale of goods, and whereas the buyer has agreed to pay the seller the agreed-upon price, it is hereby agreed as follows..." Example 2: "Whereas, the city council recognizes the importance of preserving green spaces for the health and well-being of its citizens, and whereas the proposed development project would result in the destruction of a significant portion of the city's parkland, it is hereby resolved that the project be denied." In Example 1, the whereas clause provides context for the contract by explaining the agreement between the parties involved. In Example 2, the whereas clause explains the reasoning behind the city council's decision to deny a proposed development project. Both examples illustrate how whereas clauses are used to provide background information or context for legal documents.