What is the main characteristic of an unenforceable contract?

An unenforceable contract is defined by the fact that it cannot be enforced in a court of law. This lack of enforceability means that even though the parties involved may have reached an agreement, there may be some legal issue that prevents either party from triggering legal action to enforce the contract's terms. This could stem from various underlying issues, such as the absence of consideration, incapacity of one party, or other elements that impact the legality of the agreement.

Understanding this characteristic is crucial in real estate and contractual dealings, as it highlights that not all agreements, even if agreed upon by both parties, carry the weight of the law. Knowing that an unenforceable contract lacks the ability to be upheld in court can guide individuals in their decision-making processes regarding contractual obligations they enter into.