Preliminary Agreement

/ˌprɛlɪˈmɪnɛri əˈgriːmənt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A provisional contract outlining the main terms parties intend to finalize in a formal agreement.
    The parties signed a preliminary agreement to set the framework for the merger.
  2. (n.) An agreement that is generally non-binding except for specified provisions like confidentiality or exclusivity.
    Although the preliminary agreement was not legally binding, it guided the negotiation process.

Forms

  • preliminary agreements

Commentary

Preliminary agreements often contain binding provisions such as confidentiality or exclusivity even when the overall agreement is non-binding; drafters should clearly specify which terms are intended to be binding.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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